2024 Sustainability Report: ME Elecmetal’s Environmental Leadership Driven by a Circular Business Model

A Strategic Partner in Mining’s Sustainable Transformation

As a strategic partner in the global mining sector’s sustainable transformation, ME Elecmetal is committed to supporting customers and partners across multiple dimensions:

  • Global Footprint and Customer Proximity
    • We operate state-of-the-art production facilities, strategically located in Chile, Peru, the United States, China, and South Africa, along with joint ventures in Changshu (China), Kalumbila (Zambia) and Colina (Chile). With a commercial presence in over 40 countries, we ensure local support, responsive service, and dependable delivery—wherever our customers are located.
  • Integrated Solutions for Mining Optimization
    Through our ME FIT Programs, we deliver high-impact, end-to-end solutions tailored to the needs of modern mining operations. These include:

    • Engineering, design, and manufacturing of wear parts and grinding media
    • Performance simulation and monitoring using real-time data
    • Maintenance and continuous improvement programs
    • Cutting-edge technologies such as Digital Twin modeling and predictive analytics
    • A strong focus on Circularity and ME Digital Solutions, advancing both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility
  • Aligned with Our Customers’ Sustainability Goals
    ME Elecmetal’s sustainability roadmap is closely aligned with the ESG strategies of our mining customers. We support their environmental commitments by helping them to:

    • Reduce CO₂ Emissions
      We contribute to lowering Scope 3 emissions through a production process with energy intensity below the industry average, the use of 95% recycled steel, and innovative products like CO₂ Lite—a grinding ball that delivers up to 60% lower emissions compared to conventional alternatives.
    • Increase Circularity
      By promoting waste management and the valorization of by-products such as grinding media scrap, we help customers close material loops and improve resource efficiency across their operations.
    • Enhance Environmental Transparency and Reputation
      As a fully certified supplier, ME Elecmetal provides the assurance of compliant, responsible environmental practices—reinforcing our customers’ sustainability credentials in the eyes of stakeholders and regulators alike.

Environmental Performance Backed by Advanced Production and Management Technologies

ME Elecmetal has taken decisive action to strengthen the environmental sustainability of its operations, supported by robust production technologies and management systems. Key performance indicators include:

  • 100% Recovery of Metallic Raw Material (MRM):
    All metallic raw material used in annual production is recovered and reused—either by ME Elecmetal customers or third-party recyclers.

  • 95% Recycled Content in Steel Castings:
    The vast majority of steel castings produced at ME Elecmetal’s facilities originate from recycled metallic raw material.

  • Diversified and Efficient Energy Matrix:
    41.64% of the company’s energy consumption is sourced from the power grid, while 33.76% comes from renewable sources—demonstrating a clear move toward cleaner energy.

  • Low Water Usage with High Reuse Rates:
    ME Elecmetal achieves 98.36% water recirculation, minimizing freshwater withdrawal and reducing environmental impact.

  • Low Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Intensity:
    Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions total just 1.19 tCO₂eq per ton, placing the company well below the global industry average.

  • Effective Waste Management:
    75% of global waste is properly treated or repurposed—highlighting a strong foundation for progressing toward a zero-waste future across all facilities.

  • Tri-Certified Management Systems:
    ME Elecmetal holds internationally recognized certifications in quality (ISO 9001), environmental management (ISO 14001), and occupational health and safety (ISO 45001)—reflecting a deep, structured commitment to sustainable, safe operations.

Key Highlights from ME Elecmetal’s 2024 Sustainability Management

The 2024 Sustainability Report reflects the company’s most significant achievements and strategic priorities throughout the year:

  • Senior Management Commitment
    Sustainability remains a top priority at the highest levels of leadership. The active involvement of the Chairman of the Board has reinforced this commitment, aligning it with ME Elecmetal’s historic 2024 performance—bolstered by a surge in global mining activity and the introduction of CO₂ Lite, a premium steel grinding ball that reduces carbon emissions by over 60%.

Additionally, the company consolidated the Footprint Alliance with TTM, a forward-thinking initiative focused on grinding ball recycling and circular economy innovation.

  • Environmental and Innovation Achievements
    • CO₂ Lite Product Launch: Introduced in Chile with Antofagasta Minerals as the first customer, this groundbreaking product enables real-time emissions tracking and immediate reduction strategies.

    • Grinding Ball Recycling Plant: Developed in partnership with TTM and funded by CORFO, the facility has a recycling capacity of 120,000 tons per year, supporting both environmental and operational goals.

    • Award-Winning Digital Technologies: Projects like SAG Digital Twin and Ore Sorting have earned industry recognition for their ability to optimize plant operations, anticipate equipment failures, and recover valuable metal by-products.

    • Industry Recognition: ME Elecmetal received five awards at the Innova Claro 2024 competition, including the prestigious title of “Most Innovative National Supplier” by Phibrand.

  • Diversity and Multiculturalism
    ME Elecmetal’s workforce reflects a global perspective, with team members representing 20 nationalities. While women currently make up 11% of the workforce, the company actively implements initiatives to attract and retain female talent, with a focus on promoting diversity in STEM fields.

“Our commitment to sustainability is not new—it is deeply embedded in who we are. It has guided us from the beginning and remains essential to our long-term success. Embracing this path means living our people-centered values while addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges with purpose and responsibility.”

Baltazar Sanchez, Chairman of the Board of ME Elecmetal

 

“Our commitment to sustainability is not new—it is deeply rooted in our identity and has guided us from the very beginning. We understand that getting it right is essential for our long-term success. It means living our people-centered values through a holistic approach that balances social, environmental, and economic responsibility.”

Eugenio Arteaga, CEO ME Elecmetal

Solutions

ME FIT Programs

Products and Services

Aggregate Solutions

Select Language