Antofagasta Region Research Articles

Schools and industries producing educational-labor paths in secondary TVET in Chile: Who sets the skills agenda?

This research studies the relations and articulations between two schools from the Antofagasta Region, located in the mining north of Chile, and three of mining companies in the country, which have part of their main operations in the surrounding territories of these schools. This study interrogates the forms of articulation between these schools and the companies, analyzing the main actions, agendas and institutional purposes that both the schools and the companies seek regarding each institutional needs and perspectives. We critically examine these articulations and relationships because, as a result of Chilean public policy in the area of TVET, which is intended to be an industry demand-oriented training policy, the mining industry is actively influencing the school training processes and curriculum, which does not necessarily result in the acquisition of relevant and significant skills for students. This study was designed from a qualitative approach, through the application of two-rounds of situated in-depth interviews to schools’ managers and professionals from mining companies from the north region of Chile. The findings illustrate the ways in which different efforts, contributions and formative actions provided by the companies are reshaping the educational processes inside the schools, establishing educational agendas that expect to provide more efficient alignments between the schools and the companies’ labor needs. Specifically, the paper argues that mining industry companies promote a reduced technical skills approach. This does not include long-term educational planning within the schools, and alternative technical, relational and transformational approaches to skills are absent. The former conventional notions of vocational education and training are being challenged by theoretical and empirical literature. A critical discussion on the skills agenda setting in VET systems is also presented. This study offers an original analytical review and an in-depth study on the dynamics and discourses that articulate and motivate the collaboration between VET schools and mining companies in the Chilean North.

The subaqueous felsic volcanism from the Upper Member of the Cordón de Lila Complex, Antofagasta region, northern Chile

This contribution presents the study of an Ordovician subaqueous felsic succession, formed by the ~400 m-thick Upper Member of the Cordón de Lila Complex (CISL), northern Chile. From bottom to top, the succession starts with two dacitic sills that intruded into the sediments of the lowermost part of the Upper Member. Then, it is followed by a thick sedimentary deposit, two rhyolitic lavas, a volcanoclastic felsic breccia with pyroclastic clasts, and ends with a red rhyolitic lava. The first rhyolitic lava shows centimetric to metric folds with a north-northwestern vergence, evidence of flow in that direction. In the volcanoclastic breccia, an abundant pumice-and-fiamme-rich green matrix wraps around lithic clasts, giving the rock an eutaxitic texture at the outcrop scale. This matrix and texture evidence is characteristic of hot pyroclastic flows deposited under subaqueous conditions. The described section of the breccia is formed by four coarsening-up sequences, reflecting respectively four pulses of building up energy. The lack of internal erosional features points to a single and continuous explosive eruption. An accidental granite clast in the upper part of the breccia suggests a connection with a granitic body, possibly the Pingo-Pingo monzogranite. The geochemical character of the felsic succession is calc-alkaline. The tectonic setting diagram shows a within-plate setting for the succession. This suggests a shift from the arc position inferred for the Lower Member of the CISL to a forearc continental setting for the Upper Member of the CISL.

Technical Evaluation of Block Masonry with Pozzolanic Additions

Tests are carried out on various specimens of concrete block masonry, replacing Portland cement with pozzolans available in the region of Antofagasta, Chile (fly ash, volcanic ash and desert dust). To characterize the strength of the masonry, individual blocks, prisms and small walls, made of concrete with different binder combinations cement-pozzolan are tested; the obtained resistances are compared with standard mixture (100% cement). The results indicate that it is feasible to replace a percentage of Portland cement with pozzolans, obtaining very similar resistance, contributing to the reduction of construction costs and also, contributing to the environment by reducing cement demand and thereby reducing emissions of greenhouse gases that are generated in the calcination of the raw material. It is also pretension to enhance the importance of the masonry of concrete blocks in the construction of low-cost housing (economic and ecological).

Reflexiones sobre metodologías colaborativas: proyecto de investigación para el retorno de los ancestros a territorio atacameño lickanantay (2021-2024)

Extractivist archaeological practices have been carried out in the Atacama Lickanantay territory, Antofagasta region, northern Chile, ever since the 19th century, excluding or denying the voice and/or participation of members of the local indigenous community. However, the beginning of the 21st century saw a change in this sense bringing new experiences of collaboration between Atacameños and archaeologists. Our goal is to reflect on the definitions and applications of collaborative methodologies in archaeological projects, through discussion focusing on the global, through the national and finally the local, from where we approach a particular collaborative project. The research, conducted between early 2021 and mid 2024, studies the history of the collection and patrimonialization of indigenous bodies in the Atacameño Lickanantay territory, and socializes this information among the local communities. Based on this work, we conclude that all research in the territory must involve and be authorized by the Atacameño communities. Also, we consider that the Atacameños should stop being the object of research and instead become researchers who lead or collaborate in the studies within their communities and in their territory. The originality of this paper lies precisely in the fact that it brings a global discussion of contemporary archaeology to a concrete case.

Baccharis grisebachii and B. polygama (Asteraceae: Astereae), two new records for Chile

Baccharis grisebachii and B. polygama are reported from the Antofagasta Region, Chile. Both species are known to occur in Argentina and Bolivia. A few small populations were reported in the surroundings of quebrada Barrera, quebrada Pacopaco and quebrada Cherejara, commune of Calama, Antofagasta Region. In addition, an artificial taxonomic key with all known species present in the region, is provided. The distribution map in South America and some comments on the conservation status of the two registered species are provided here.

The Water Management Impacts of Large-Scale Mining Operations: A Social and Environmental Perspective

This study investigates water consumption in two areas with limited water resources—the Salar de Atacama and Salar de Atacama-Vertiente Pacifico basins in Chile’s Antofagasta Region—with the aim of developing strategies that incorporate social and environmental aspects into water management. A qualitative approach was employed that involved a focus group with twelve water management representatives and surveys of the general population (468 responses). Additionally, the current state of water rights in the two basins was examined and the feasibility of the proposed strategies was assessed. The findings reveal that the mining industry’s development approach is mostly viewed as negative, mainly due to inadequate community engagement, confidential consumption data, and limited government oversight. The quantitative findings indicate that 53.8% of respondents see the main obstacle as the lack of a solution satisfying both parties. Additionally, 35.3%, 24.4%, and 22.4% believe transparency, objective information provision, and detailed resource usage disclosure by mining companies would help. Adopting a comprehensive water stewardship approach that considers social and environmental factors would enable a novel contribution to a more effective and sustainable water resource management system in northern Chile, mitigating communities’ negative perceptions of the industry and facilitating the integration of communities and involved agents. Therefore, improved management and transparent collaboration among stakeholders are essential for responsible water resource use in mining.

Socio-environmental and technical factors assessment of photovoltaic hydrogen production in Antofagasta, Chile

This study introduces a method for identifying territories ideal for establishing photovoltaic (PV) plants for green hydrogen (GH2) production in the Antofagasta region of northern Chile, a location celebrated for its outstanding solar energy potential. Assessing the viability of PV plant installation necessitates a balanced consideration of technical aspects and socio-environmental constraints, such as the proximity to areas of ecological importance and indigenous communities, to identify potential zones for solar and non-conventional renewable energy (NCRE)-based hydrogen production.To tackle this challenge, we propose a methodology that utilizes geospatial analysis, integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) tools with sensitivity analysis, to determine the most suitable sites for PV plant installation in the Antofagasta region. Our geospatial analysis employs the QGIS software to identify these optimal locations, while sensitivity analysis uses the Sørensen–Dice coefficient method to assess the similarity among chosen socio-environmental variables.Applying this methodology to the Antofagasta region reveals that a significant area within a 15 km radius of existing road networks and electrical substations is favorable for photovoltaic projects. Our sensitivity analysis further highlights the limiting effects of socio-environmental factors and their interactions. Moreover, our research finds that enlarging areas of socio-environmental importance could increase the total hydrogen production by about 10% per commune, indicating the impact of these factors on the potential for renewable energy production.

Invasive New and Old World freshwater species in isolated springs of the Atacama Desert: implications for native species

ABSTRACT Invasive species can significantly alter invaded ecosystems. In this study, we report the presence of two invasive species, the poeciliid fish Poecilia reticulata and the gastropod Melanoides tuberculata, in three isolated springs from the coast of the Atacama Desert in Antofagasta city, northern Chile. Both species were identified through diagnostic morphological features and phylogenetic analysis. This is the first confirmed record of P. reticulata in natural ecosystems of Chile. The finding of M. tuberculata represents the first record of the species in the Antofagasta Region, and the third in the country. Considering the well-documented adverse effects of both species on invaded ecosystems and their high potential for spread, we recommend the prompt implementation of mitigation measures. These should focus on the direct mechanical removal of these species, given the relatively straightforward sampling process and the relatively small size of the springs. Such measures would significantly contribute to the preservation of native species, particularly those categorized as vulnerable.

Insights into swordfish (Xiphias gladius) movement patterns and habitat utilization off the coast of northern Chile

This study reports on the fine-scale movements of swordfish (Xiphias gladius) tagged off of the Antofagasta region of northern Chile, where harpoon fishing operations date back more than seven millenia. The study was conducted within a highly productive swordfish foraging area where movements and habitat use remain poorly characterized. Swordfish were outfitted with both data storage and satellite-linked archival tags scheduled for short (<30 days) and longer-term (>100 days) data collection. All tags were deployed on basking swordfish using harpoon-based methods across two field seasons in March 2019 and April 2022 around oceanic fronts and offshore seamounts. Fine-scale depth and temperature data were recorded over 145 days from four adult swordfish (100-200 kg). Swordfish exhibited regionally unique diurnal behaviors with greater average daytime depths than those recorded at night (78.0 ± 66.5 and 12.7 ± 4.9 m, respectively). The average daytime depths were shallower than those previously documented for other Pacific regions, including Chile's offshore waters. Daytime basking was observed on 76% of the daily records (110 out of 145 days) and accounted for approximately 12% of the collective daylight hours. Findings align with previous swordfish tagging studies and suggest that depth distribution patterns vary considerably depending on regional oceanographic conditions. Movement data are compared with previous studies, and we discussed relative to regional fishing operations.

Use of HDPE geomembranes as alternative to the use of concrete for channels lining in remote areas

The use of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembranes as channels linings for water transportation is an effective solution that offers numerous advantages over traditional concrete lining systems. This paper evaluates the use of these geomembranes as lining system for diversion channels for a photovoltaic power plant in the II Region of Antofagasta, Chile. The study consisted of the analysis of advantages and limitations of using geomembranes as channels linings for water transportation, compared to traditional concrete lining. Additionally, it is described the main recommendations for proper installation and maintenance of the geomembranes to ensure their effectiveness and durability over time. To ensure optimal performance, the hydraulic design of the geomembranes considered parameters such as water velocity and flow rate, slope, and crosssectional area of the channel. Structural design factors such as impact resistance, rupture resistance, and erosion were also considered. The study concludes that HDPE geomembranes are an efficient solution for water channels lining, guaranteeing safe and long-lasting water retention. Flexibility, adaptability to terrain irregularities, simple transportation and installation are some of the main advantages of geomembranes. Additionally, geomembranes have long-term durability, resistance to low and high temperatures, and are an optimal solution for remote areas with logistical difficulties.

Probabilistic models for understanding inland amphipods water population abundances in Andean stream (Caspana, 23°S, Antofagasta region, Chile)

Abstract The Andes mountains in northern Chile have numerous small permanent and intermittent streams that are poorly studied; among the most reported species are amphipods of the genus Hyalella, specifically H. fossamanchini and H. kochi. The aim of the present study was to do a first characterization of populations of both amphipod species in a small stream (Caspana, 23°S; 3200 m a.s.l.), that was visited in September 2022. The first results using a Kruskall-Wallis nonparametric test revealed that the abundances of both species and unidentified juveniles were not significantly different in a comparison of two sites, whereas a Mann-Wittney nonparametric U test gave similar results when each species and juveniles were compared between sites. The results of variance/mean ratio revealed the existence of an aggregated pattern, and a negative binomial distribution for all samples. The occurrence of an aggregated pattern and the consequent negative binomial distribution is a very frequent pattern for inland water invertebrates in Chilean rivers.

Probabilistic models and contingency tables for studying potential species interactions between two intertidal decapods in the north of Chile (Cifuncho, 25°S, Antofagasta region, Chile)

Abstract The northern Chilean coast is characterized by its high productivity and diversity due to the presence of the cold, nutrient-rich water of the Humboldt Current. In this scenario, the rocky shore provides many microhabitats for invertebrates such as crustaceans. The aim of the present study was to analyse potential species interactions using probabilistic models and contingency tables. In this particular case we analysed the potential interactions between two sympatric intertidal decapods, Cyclograpsus cinereus and Petrolisthes granulosus, on the rocky shores of Cifuncho Bay, an isolated bay in the north of Chile. The results revealed that both species had a uniform pattern, that was adjusted to a binomial distribution for C. cinereus, and a Poisson distribution for P. granulosus. These results are probably due to territorial behaviour, and this was corroborated by the results of the contingency table, which denoted the independence of both species. These results would not coincide with classical observations of intertidal decapods on rocky shores of continental Chile, as those denoted a gregarious pattern. However, on the other hand, the present results do not explain any details about potential interactions between the two species here analysed.

The geomorphological and ecological functioning of the Silala River

AbstractPerennial rivers in desert regions are relevant environments that tend to concentrate most ecosystem services and values, but are not as studied as much as intermittent and ephemeral rivers. This article reports on the main morphological and ecological features of the Silala River, a narrow permanent river in the arid region of Antofagasta, in the north of Chile. The study was motivated by the dispute between Chile and Bolivia concerning the status of the Silala as an international watercourse. Field surveys of sediment transport using traps and marked sediments (colored and tagged clasts) revealed that finer sediments are moved in higher percentages and for longer distances than coarser sediment fractions, which corroborates the size‐selective nature of sediment dynamics in the river. The stream features the typical step/pool‐plane bed morphology that is to be expected in an alluvial river with the given boundary conditions of slope, grain size of sediments, and lateral confinement. Furthermore, the Morphological Quality Index (MQI) classifies the river as featuring overall good morphological conditions and the river hosts an abundant population of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Although this is a non‐native species, their presence shows that the general conditions of the river (availability of food and presence of aquatic habitats) are able to sustain a population of resident fish. Overall, the morphological forms, geomorphic processes, and ecological features of the Silala River are typical of an alluvial stream with a permanent flow regime.This article is categorized under: Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change Human Water > Rights to Water Science of Water > Hydrological Processes Water and Life > Nature of Freshwater Ecosystems

Null model for explain benthic macroinvertebrates communities in Salado River, 23°S, Antofagasta Region, Chile

Null model for explain benthic macroinvertebrates communities in Salado River, 23°S, Antofagasta Region, Chile

Null models to explain highly diverse community of intertidal decapods on a temperate rocky coast in Antofagasta, northern Chile (23º27ʹS)

Abstract The decapod fauna on intertidal shores in northern Chile is characterized by its relatively high diversity and abundance due to the presence of continuous upwelling by the Humboldt Current, which results in a high productivity. The decapod fauna on intertidal rocky shores is characterized by coexisting species that inhabits in natural shelters such as cracks and eroded rocks, as well as among macroalgae. We aimed to monitor the brachyuran and anomuran (porcellanid) crabs in three intertidal sites during two periods of time in September-December 2019 in the Antofagasta region, one site without human intervention and two sites in the city of Antofagasta, for which we applied null models in ecology. We assumed that the communities are random, a viewpoint that is more robust because it reduces the risk of error type I. The results of the application of null models on the co-occurrence species revealed that species associations are mainly structured for all sites, whereas the niche-sharing null model revealed that the reported species did not share ecological niches and in consequence there is not interspecific competition. The results would probably indicate that the species of intertidal decapods have a micro-specific ecological-niche differentiation, which would explain the existence of structured pattern in species associations. The results were compared with information for other sites along the continental Chilean coast.

Assesing Climate Change Risk in the Mining Industry: A Case Study in the Copper Industry in the Antofagasta Region, Chile

The challenges climate change poses require careful consideration and addressing within specific industries. In the mining context, climate change introduces potential limitations to the sustainable sourcing of minerals, thereby amplifying the criticality of several metals. However, most studies examining mineral criticality fail to assess the localized impacts of climate change, despite significant variations occurring at a relatively small scale. In this study, we propose a methodological approach for conducting a climate risk assessment in the mining industry, encompassing the identification of relevant hazards, vulnerabilities, and exposure specific to the sector. To illustrate the application of this approach, we utilize micro-level data for the Antofagasta region in Chile, a prominent mining cluster situated in a country projected to be profoundly affected by climate change. The findings of this study underscore the necessity for coordinated efforts in adaptation and climate resilience while offering a valuable tool for allocating resources to more vulnerable locations, thus strengthening the mineral supply chain.

Environmental justice at the environmental courts? Mining, socioenvironmental conflicts, and environmental litigation in northern Chile

With the judicialization of politics and the creation of new environmental institutions, environmental litigation is now an increasingly common dimension of socioenvironmental conflicts. This study examines this pattern in the context of recently created environmental courts in Chile, focusing on lithium and copper mining litigation in the Atacama salt flats of the Antofagasta Region. I argue that while the courts are formally open to a wide variety of legal complaints, community groups face an uphill battle when using legal mobilization strategies due to the underlying political and economic power of the mining industry in northern Chile. Nevertheless, environmental litigation matters for environmental policy implementation because it reveals conflicts over environmental compliance, highlighting gaps between environmental laws on the books and actual practices. In this sense, environmental litigation activates environmental regulations and can provide communities with greater leverage to demand stronger enforcement, even as the long-term implications of judicial rulings for addressing current and past harms remain to be seen. The paper is based on documents from the Chilean environmental courts database, media sources, and twenty-two semi-structured interviews with activists and community leaders, lawyers, scientists, and government officials to better interpret and contextualize the court archival data.

Exploring the Potential of Green Hydrogen Production and Application in the Antofagasta Region of Chile

Green hydrogen is gaining increasing attention as a key component of the global energy transition towards a more sustainable industry. Chile, with its vast renewable energy potential, is well positioned to become a major producer and exporter of green hydrogen. In this context, this paper explores the prospects for green hydrogen production and use in Chile. The perspectives presented in this study are primarily based on a compilation of government reports and data from the scientific literature, which primarily offer a theoretical perspective on the efficiency and cost of hydrogen production. To address the need for experimental data, an ongoing experimental project was initiated in March 2023. This project aims to assess the efficiency of hydrogen production and consumption in the Atacama Desert through the deployment of a mobile on-site laboratory for hydrogen generation. The facility is mainly composed by solar panels, electrolyzers, fuel cells, and a battery bank, and it moves through the Atacama Desert in Chile at different altitudes, from the sea level, to measure the efficiency of hydrogen generation through the energy approach. The challenges and opportunities in Chile for developing a robust green hydrogen economy are also analyzed. According to the results, Chile has remarkable renewable energy resources, particularly in solar and wind power, that could be harnessed to produce green hydrogen. Chile has also established a supportive policy framework that promotes the development of renewable energy and the adoption of green hydrogen technologies. However, there are challenges that need to be addressed, such as the high capital costs of green hydrogen production and the need for supportive infrastructure. Despite these challenges, we argue that Chile has the potential to become a leading producer and exporter of green hydrogen or derivatives such as ammonia or methanol. The country’s strategic location, political stability, and strong commitment to renewable energy provide a favorable environment for the development of a green hydrogen industry. The growing demand for clean energy and the increasing interest in decarbonization present significant opportunities for Chile to capitalize on its renewable energy resources and become a major player in the global green hydrogen market.

Arthropod Assemblages from La Chimba National Reserve (Antofagasta Region, Chile): Biodiversity, Threats and Conservation

We provide the first inventory of terrestrial arthropods from La Chimba National Reserve (Antofagasta Region, Chile), a protected area whose purpose is to preserve the biota of the Coastal desert of Tocopilla embedded in the larger transitional coastal desert. The study was conducted during spring of 2019. A total of 2,852 specimens were recorded, distributed across 188 species. Among the collected specimens, 5 new species were identified: two species of scorpions, Brachistosternus chimba Ojanguren-Affilastro, Alfaro & Pizarro-Araya, 2021 and Rumikiru sp. nov. (Scorpiones: Bothriuridae); a solpugid (Solifugae: Ammotrechidae); a spider (Araneae: Filistatidae), and a centipede (Scutigeromorpha: Scutigeridae). The richness estimations showed large values for most arthropod groups, which is evidence of an incomplete inventory of species richness. The article also discusses the current threats faced by these communities of endemic arthropods and suggests immediate actions to preserve these groups in extremely fragile semiarid ecosystems.

Water-Energy Nexus in the Antofagasta Mining District: Options for Municipal Wastewater Reuse from a Nearly Energy-Neutral WWTP

The region of Antofagasta is the mining hearth of Chile. The water requirement of the local mining sector is 65% of the total water uses, with a water consumption of approx. 9 m3/s in the year 2020. That determines an important pressure onto freshwater, which can only be alleviated by resorting to desalination or reuse of treated wastewater. At present, an amount equal to 90% of the wastewater generated in the city of Antofagasta is discharged into the ocean, after undergoing only preliminary treatments. The wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), which includes a conventional activated sludge (CAS) process, has a very low treatment capacity, insufficient to serve the whole population. A new WWTP will be built with the twofold aim of (i) purifying the totality of the wastewater generated from the city (approx. 320,000 equivalent inhabitants, e.i.), and (ii) allowing the reuse of 100% of the treated wastewater in the local mining sector, in agreement with the goals of the Chilean government. The new Antofagasta WWTP will include preliminary treatments and a conventional activated sludge (CAS) process with a higher treatment capacity. This study integrates a number of modeling tools, namely the Activated Sludge Model n.3 (ASM3), the Takacs model, and some stoichiometric and energy balances, to assess the impact that some changes, possibly introduced into the project of the new WWTP, could determine on its energy and environmental sustainability. Specifically, through an energy-economic-environmental (3-E) analysis, the original scheme of the planned WWTP was compared with three scenarios, of which Scenario 1 introduces anaerobic digestion (AD) of secondary sludge, Scenario 2 concerns primary sedimentation and AD of both primary and secondary sludge, and, finally, Scenario 3, other than primary sedimentation and AD, also includes a pre-denitrification process. The results of the study demonstrated that all the changes introduced by Scenario 3 were of capital importance to promote the transformation of the WWTP into a nearly energy-neutral water resource recovery facility (WRRF). Specifically, the processes/operations introduced with Scenario 3 can reduce the electric energy demand from external sources to only 20% of that of the original scheme, and consequently avoid the emission of 4390 tons CO2-equivalent/y.