Long term energy-related environmental issues of copper production

摘要: Abstract Primary copper production is a major activity in the mining sector of several countries. However, it highly energy-intensive and poses important environmental hazards. In case Chile, world's largest producer (40% world total), we examine its energy consumption energy-related implications over time horizon 25 years. Concerning latter, focus on greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions, one most debated issues. This paper follows-up our previous report which current situation was analyzed particular technical option for improving efficiency concurrently reducing GHG emissions discussed. Estimated reference or base (BS) mitigation (MS) scenarios are developed period ending 2020. The former assesses demand projected accordance with forecasts specific patterns (assuming that measures adopted ‘spontaneously’) their resultant while latter assumes induced actions intended to reduce by adopting an aggressive policy efficient use. For year 2020, main results are: (i) BS, 1214 t CO 2 /ton refined content (49% lower than 1994); (ii) MS, 1037 t /t (56% 1994). have been estimated considering both fuel electricity process requirements.