Ensuring Sustainability in the New Wave of Mexican Mines

Driven by global demand for energy transition metals like silver and copper, growth-focused firms face a dual pressure: the race to enter production swiftly and the need to build sustainable, long-term operations. For 2025’s miners, success is no longer measured solely in ounces poured or tons moved; it is defined by a strategic pathway that embeds financial, environmental, and operational sustainability into the foundation of their projects.

A primary decision for companies advancing projects is the allocation of resources to pre-production activities. This includes geological modeling, metallurgical testing, and community engagement. Experts stress that under-investment in this stage can create long-term risks; an inaccurate resource model may affect financial viability, while inefficient metallurgy can impact operational profitability.  

Furthermore, the inability to establish agreements with local communities is considered a significant non-geological project risk, as failing to obtain social license to operate could mean the impossibility of operating a mining project. “When people understand the project's scope, timeline, and benefits, and have a say in how it is implemented, trust follows. These practices help differentiate responsible mining from informal operations,” said Fabián Casaubón, Partner, AOSENUMA, in an interview with MBN. Furthermore, a credible and data-supported plan for future scalability is a critical component for showcasing a project's long-term potential.

Given market volatility and Mexico's evolving regulatory landscape, a component of investment pitches for these projects is a focus on operational and financial resilience. For investors, this often means demonstrating a low all-in sustaining cost (AISC) profile that can withstand commodity price fluctuations. 

An ESG framework is also a key part of this presentation, especially amid increased competition for capital across all sectors. ESG performance is increasingly used by investors to assess operational management and long-term risk, with many prioritizing projects that meet high environmental standards. An Accenture survey found that 59% of investors expect miners to lead decarbonization efforts, while 63% would divest from or avoid companies that fail to meet those targets. “The approach companies can adopt has not changed significantly over the years and essentially revolves around good business practices. Companies that embrace responsible mining, act as partners in their operating environments, and adhere to leading ESG practices tend to attract attention. In a market rebound, investors are inclined to favor low-risk companies that prioritize responsible mining, which are often categorized as ESG-responsible firms,” said Dean McPherson, Head of Business Development for Global Mining, TSX and TSXV.

The criteria for supplier selection are evolving from a primary focus on upfront cost to include factors related to long-term value and operational support, as well as their social and environmental footprint. Key considerations now include a supplier's ability to provide on-the-ground technical support to minimize downtime, which is particularly important for remote operations. Long-term supplier relationships are often defined by an alignment on safety, efficiency, and sustainability standards, shifting the dynamic from a transaction to an operational collaboration. 

As tariff threats increase uncertainty, companies have been discussing the opportunities localizing their suppliers network could bring, which could also help avoid exchange rate fluctuations impacting their operational costs. “Tariffs will increase costs for everyone, from consumers to businesses, driving a shift toward national sourcing. Companies already positioned for local sourcing will have some protection against these impacts, although not everything can be sourced domestically,” noted Jason Simpson, President and CEO, Orla Mining, at Mexico Mining Forum PDAC 2025.

The path from a developing operation to a larger project is often guided by a phased approach to expansion. This blueprint was used by companies like Guanajuato Silver. The first phase focuses on achieving stable, cash-flow positive production, such as their strategy of processing low-cost, above-ground stockpiles at the Pinguico project in Guanajuato. A subsequent decision often involves reinvesting that cash flow into brownfield exploration, exploring near the existing mine, to expand the resource and extend the mine life. 

The pathway to production in modern mining is no longer a linear process. To stand out as responsible investments, companies must align with modern investor expectations on ESG and build a foundation for scalable, long-term growth. The companies that successfully navigate this landscape will do more than just bring new production online. They will create a positive spillover effect in the communities where they operate, while also providing the critical minerals essential for global industrialization and the race toward the net-zero goal.



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