CIMMGM Joins Mining Voices Against Open-Pit Ban

The College of Mining, Metallurgical, and Geological Engineers of Mexico (CIMMGM) voiced concerns about a proposed ban on open-pit mining. The association cautions that this ban could endanger many jobs in the Earth Sciences field and have detrimental effects on both current professionals and students.

CIMMGM highlights that the ban could lead to a loss of over 1 million direct and indirect jobs, significantly affecting the livelihood of many people. Additionally, it could hinder essential investments in mining, which are crucial for advancing energy transition efforts. This, in turn, may leave around 20,000 students in Earth Sciences facing limited employment opportunities in the near future.

CIMMGM says communities dependent on open-pit mining projects are also at risk, with potential consequences for their well-being. The association notes that a ban might drive mining activities to informal sectors and encourage the unregulated trade of minerals and metals. This shift could result in shortages of critical minerals and metals necessary for national development. 

In an interview with MBN, Raúl García, President, CIMMGM, emphasized the overregulation faced by the mining industry, despite its track record of maintaining environmentally responsible practices. García noted that although regulations such as the Mining Law reform and the proposed ban on open-pit mining are intended to protect the environment, they may have unintended consequences. He warned that these measures could drive investment away from Mexico to other countries where regulatory standards may not ensure responsible mining practices. “This does not solve the problem because environmental protection cannot be regional, as we are part of a single planet. Moving operations to countries with weaker environmental standards could lead to even greater damage,” Raúl added. 

In light of these concerns, CIMMGM advocates for the promotion of responsible mining practices rather than an outright ban. The college stresses the importance of maintaining industry competitiveness and ensuring responsible mining operations are not unduly penalized. The association offered its collaboration to legislators and the Federal Executive, emphasizing its commitment to upholding responsible mining standards in Mexico. 

García noted that CIMMGM has worked together with all mining associations like CAMIMEX, and AIMMGM to share a joint message not only to federal or local authorities but society aiming to change the prejudices around the mining sector, as it is important to share science and fact-based information to bring down misconceptions. “We must focus on convincing those skeptical about mining’s social benefits and environmental impact. Engaging skeptics in technical discussions is crucial,” García told MBN. 

Unfavorable Legislation Output 

Since the Mining Law reform took effect, the exploration sub-sector has been the most impacted, as this activity is now exclusively reserved for the state. According to CIMMGM, the reform has led to an unemployment rate of 30% to 50% in primary exploration in Mexico, with some companies having to lay off all their exploration staff. 

Since over 60% of mining production comes from open-pit operations, mining stakeholders estimate a negative impact on the Mexican GDP, resulting in a reduction of 1%. During his swearing-in ceremony as president of AIMMGM, Rubén del Pozo noted that open-pit mining is the most efficient way to extract minerals from low-ore deposits and that these operations are conducted with the highest international standards for sustainability.