Water is a finite and vital resource, and its responsible management is one of the greatest challenges – and opportunities – for the mining sector. In Brazil, where water availability faces periods of drought and the demand for water increases exponentially, efficiency in the use of this resource is not only an environmental issue, but a strategic imperative for the continuity of operations. Leading companies recognize this and are investing heavily in innovative solutions. A notable example of commitment to water management and sustainability in the sector is Nexa Resources, which has stood out for its initiatives to reduce water consumption in its operations, serving as an inspiration for the entire industry.

The Water Challenge in the Context of Mining:

Mining is an activity that historically uses large volumes of water in its processes, from ore washing to equipment cooling. However, increasing water scarcity, regulatory pressure, and the requirement for a more robust social license to operate are forcing mining companies to rethink their strategies. Projections, such as those of the interim director of ANA (National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency), Nazareno Araújo, warn of a possible reduction of up to 40% in water availability in some regions of Brazil by 2040. Given this scenario, efficient water management becomes a central pillar of ESG sustainability.

The Nexa Resources Example: Innovation and Commitment to Water Resources

Nexa Resources, one of the world's largest zinc producers with operations in Brazil, is an example of how it is possible to transform the challenge of water management into an advantage. The company has implemented several initiatives aimed not only at reducing consumption, but also at reusing and optimizing water resources:

1. Recirculation and Intensive Reuse of Water: Nexa invests in recirculation systems that allow the same water to be used multiple times in different stages of the mineral processing. The company reports high recirculation rates, demonstrating a commitment to maximizing the use of already collected water.
   
   
2. Advanced Treatment Technologies: The implementation of modern and efficient wastewater treatment plants ensures that the water discharged or reused meets the highest quality standards, minimizing the impact on receiving water bodies.
   
   
3. Filtration of Tailings and Dry Tailings: By adopting tailings filtration technology (which results in a more solid material, "dry tailings"), Nexa significantly reduces the amount of water contained in the tailings, decreasing the need for large liquid tailings dams and the water consumption for their transport. This contributes to safety and water optimization.
   
   
4. Rainwater Harvesting and Use of Spring Water: The company seeks to optimize the collection and use of alternative water sources, such as rainwater and water from the mines' own drainage, reducing dependence on external sources.
   
   
5. Continuous Monitoring and Optimization: The use of real-time monitoring systems to track water consumption at each stage of the process allows for the identification of bottlenecks and the optimization of water use through operational adjustments.

These practices not only result in a smaller water footprint, but also generate significant economic benefits, such as reduced collection and treatment costs, and strengthen the company's reputation with investors, regulators, and communities.

Turning the Example into a Solution for Your Company

The Nexa Resources case illustrates that advanced water management is a competitive differentiator. At Ecominas, we understand that each operation is unique, but the principles of water efficiency and responsibility are universal. Our consulting services are designed to help mining companies:

• Mapping your Water Footprint: Understanding where water is consumed and what the points of greatest impact are.
  
  
• Identifying Optimization Opportunities: Analyze processes and technologies to propose solutions for reuse and reduced consumption, inspired by industry benchmarks such as Nexa.
  
  
• Implementing Water Efficiency Projects: From planning to execution, we assist in the adoption of technologies and best practices for water management.
  
  
• Managing Water Risks: Assess risks related to shortages, quality, and regulatory compliance.
  
  
• Communicate Results: To produce transparent reports on water performance, strengthening the company's ESG reputation.

Nexa Resources is a reminder that mining can and should be a leading industry in sustainability. Water management is not a cost, but a strategic investment that ensures operational resilience, a social license to operate, and attractiveness to the capital market. By adopting best practices in water use, Brazilian mining companies not only preserve a vital resource, but also build a more sustainable and prosperous future for the sector and for the communities.