During 2024, as part of its wildlife protection efforts, SQM reported to the SMA, in compliance with the requirements established by the RCA, the fall of several bird specimens at the Lithium Chemical Plant facilities. The SQM team reported all the findings.
Of these, some are introduced birds, not wild ones, and the vast majority are Dominican gulls, two-thirds of which are juveniles.
36 terns were successfully rescued
Although SQM reported the discovery of 36 terns to the authorities, they found all the birds alive and in good condition and transferred them to the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center at the University of Antofagasta , which has the necessary protocols for their evaluation and subsequent release, as the center reported on social media. It's worth noting that the discovery of 36 terns represents a smaller number compared to similar incidents reported in other locations in northern Chile.
Lighting adjustments after discovery of terns
The terns were found in project areas, and their fall was associated with events related to the presence of lighting fixtures, whose location and angle were adjusted.
None of the tern findings were associated with the pool area. Instead, birds such as gulls and vultures were found in that area.
It's also important to mention that the Lithium Chemical Plant has a perimeter fence and bird-repellent equipment. SQM has evaluated the strengthening of these measures to prevent the entry of domestic wildlife.
The task force has strengthened safeguards regarding wildlife protection and animal welfare, emphasizing the prohibition on keeping pets and encouraging the reporting of any bird-related incidents.
SQM guarantees environmental compliance and animal welfare
It should be reiterated that there were no incidents affecting wildlife at the Lithium Chemical Plant, as all reported terns were found alive, in good condition, and were transferred to the rescue center of the University of Antofagasta.
SQM is working to demonstrate to the SMA its strict and timely compliance with the decreed measures, as well as the measures the company has previously adopted to reinforce its commitment to wildlife protection and animal welfare.
More Information
En Novandino Litio We are committed to the protection and conservation of wildlife, that's why we have a Environmental Monitoring Plan that allows us to monitor and protect it.
