Women in Mining Argentina: Closing with questions to dispel mining myths

The final panel of Women in Mining Argentina (WIM) was dedicated to questions. The session was led by Marita Ahumada, a geologist specializing in Environmental Management and a member of the WIM Argentina Advisory Committee . " Mining and its Myths, a Space for Open Questions" was marked by words of gratitude and a focus on the role of women. Women in Mining . With the support of Karina Viñas, director of the WIM Gender Committee, and moderation by Andrea Rodríguez of ASAP Consultores, Ahumada recapitulated and expressed gratitude for everything shared during a day of learning that took place at the Arizu Space.

Among the questions the geologist answered was the extent to which sodium cyanide should be banned for gold and silver extraction. She explained that this substance is highly controlled and regulated by the International Cyanide Management Code, which is monitored from the moment it leaves the factory until it reaches the mine. She added that of 100% of the cyanide used worldwide, less than 20% is used in mining .

In this regard, Ahumada wondered what's happening with other industries that use sodium or potassium cyanide. It would be good if they were controlled in the same way as mining, which employs strict handling and use processes. In this regard, the geologist noted that the ban on cyanide use in Mendoza (through Law No. 7722) currently means that the exploitation of Mendoza's copper mines means that a portion of the minerals will be wasted. This is because extracting them requires the use of these types of chemicals. "It seems like a contradiction, and it begs the question of whether we are truly protecting the environment this way," reflected Marita Ahumada.

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The participants also asked about how to balance economic development with environmental and social responsibility. In this context, the specialist stated that this is a key element for projects to develop and reach the province. Along these same lines, the geologist responded that mining is compatible with tourism and agriculture. " Mining is the mother of industries and contributes to the rest," summarized Ahumada, who gave various examples of how Mendoza's wine industry uses products derived from the mining industry on a daily basis.

Finally, and as a final reflection, the panel on myths addressed who can work in mining, what training is required, and the recommended ages. At the closing of the session, the key role of gender perspective was emphasized again as a way to promote diversity in a growing industry. The new impact of the use of Artificial Intelligence was also mentioned, while highlighting the importance of continuing an education and learning process that demonstrates that the myths surrounding mining are just that: myths. "Environmental work is at the foundation of everything before starting work," Ahumada stated.