Aclara Resources Chief Financial Officer Francois Motte has announced the filing of a new Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Penco Module rare earths project with the Environmental Service Assessment (SEA) in Chile. The new EIA integrates an enhanced technical design that aims to address concerns related to environmental and social requirements from public services and local communities. This optimization follows a comprehensive review conducted by CAP S.A.
In discussions with Proactive, Motte revealed that Aclara Resources has engaged with over 1,000 residents, leaders, and opinion leaders in Penco, receiving 303 recommendations and comments. These interactions have resulted in a smaller but more robust project design. Key features retained from the previous EIA include a fully recycled water source, revegetation using native species, and the creation of over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs. Environmental stewardship remains central to Aclara’s vision, highlighted by initiatives such as a program to distribute "naranjillos" and other vulnerable native species to social and regional organizations in the Biobio region and beyond for conservation purposes.
The new EIA submission is expected to achieve positive admissibility within five days, followed by a 40-day observation period by relevant authorities. The evaluation process will encompass both technical assessments and public consultations, during which Aclara will present the project’s enhancements.
