REVEALING HIDDEN TREASURES: STORIES OF RESPONSIBLE ARTISANAL MINING IN TAMBOPATA, PERU

In ABEL 3, nestled in the zone of the Tambopata National Reserve, Mr. Luis Eusebio Celadita Espinoza has brought to life an alluvial mine that reflects the passion and dedication of artisanal miners. Despite the challenges faced, his perseverance and community spirit have brought benefits to the small population of Alto Libertad. From the commitment to responsible extraction of precious gold material to the proper management of tailings, the ABEL 3 mine is a testament to the value that can be created by working in harmony with nature.

Similar to ABEL 3, the Fátima Mining Concession has overcome obstacles. Led by Balbina Huamán Wd. of Auquipata, this group of artisanal miners has established a strong bond with the local community and paved the way for formalization and fair mining. The operation in Fátima is based on artisanal methods of suction and washing of gold material, proving that gold can be extracted without harming the surrounding natural environment.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Location: Province of Tambopata, department of Madre de Dios, Peru.

Number of miners: 8 men and 1 woman.

Extraction type: Alluvial.

Fairmined Certification Date: 08/12/2023.

In the formal mining concession “El Príncipe Azul 1” (EPA), Evelyn Diana Celadita Contreras and her team of workers have made significant strides. Thanks to a formalization process and their commitment to responsible mining, they have transformed a challenging landscape into a stage of hope and prosperity. With the support of the community and their partnership with the Tauro Fátima Artisanal Miners Association (AMATAF), the El Príncipe Azul EPA mining concession has become a model of sustainable development in the region.

The Formal Mining Concession “LINDA 2” shows the determination and resilient spirit of small-scale miners. Located in a hard-to-reach area and with a history of improvements in their mining practices, the LINDA 2 organization has grown and thrived. Their focus on alluvial mining in gold placer deposits, using environmentally friendly methods and avoiding the use of mercury, demonstrates that significant achievements can be reached even in challenging circumstances.