Our Gualconda Mine is operated by the Agro-Mining Association of Los Andes: Fortaleza. We practice responsible mining with respect for nature and people.
Our mining model began transforming in 2011 under the guidance of the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), an NGO dedicated to steering small-scale mining toward better social, economic, and environmental practices. Once achieved, these practices lead to certification under the Fairmined label.
Since 2011, we gradually eliminated mercury, completing its total removal from our production processes in 2016.
Responsible Small-Scale Mining
Since 2006, we have focused on a more responsible mining operation, shifting from rudimentary practices toward an increasingly technical and sustainable operation. With support from the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), we achieved Fairmined certification in 2017. This certification allowed us to showcase our project internationally, highlighting our commitment to responsible mining. While it didn’t improve our economy, the certification raised awareness of our work and strengthened our identity as small-scale miners.
Today, we continue working to achieve this certification once more!
An Ecuadorian with the surname Semería began tunnel mining at the site. Due to illness, he returned to his country, leaving the mine to his workers, who, without their employer, declared bankruptcy and abandoned the site.
Local people began mining the site in a rudimentary way, marking the start of a new extraction phase in the region.
Valentín Álvarez Portillo, father of Rolberto, founded the Gualconda Mine with Mr. Segundo Apráez, establishing a family legacy in mining.
Rolberto Álvarez took over leadership of the project, continuing his family’s mining efforts at Gualconda Mine.
The Agro-Mining Association of Los Andes "Fortaleza" was formed as a means to unite efforts and conduct mining in a coordinated and community-oriented way. With 12 members and Rolberto as its leader, the association laid its foundations.
We completely moved away from rudimentary mining to focus on responsible mining practices.
We began adjusting our production processes with the goal of achieving Fairmined certification.
As part of our responsible mining project, we completely eliminated the use of mercury in the production process.
The association earned Fairmined certification, showcasing its commitment to responsible, sustainable mining practices.
The campaign to fund the remediation plan for La Honda stream was launched, aiming to bury over 400 tons of mercury-laden tailings, following technical remediation guidelines, and restore nature.
Thanks to the support of the community, allies, and friends, we successfully buried the old mercury tailings and regenerated the biodiversity of Quebrada La Honda.
In addition to responsible mining, the association offers guided tours to individuals interested in our community-oriented, sustainable work model.
Beyond restoring nature’s services through our responsible mining, we continue to share our message and contribute to the transformation of other mines.
Community Work
We are one family, and everyone helps one another. Here, “we all eat from the same pot,” reflecting our commitment to the community.
Authenticity
We are genuine, humble artisanal miners, proud of our work. We rely on our activity and perform it with dedication.
Friendship and Optimism
We value friendship and family, with the belief that there is always room for improvement.
Sustainability
We practice responsible mining, minimizing environmental impact and striving to restore the damages caused.
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