As part of the program to open its facilities to the community, Codelco División El Teniente invited residents of the 10 de Agosto Population in the Gultro sector, in Olivar, to participate in a guided tour of Hacienda Cauquenes, where they learned about sustainability initiatives promoted by the mining company.

During the tour, they had the opportunity to appreciate the heritage architecture of the place, explore the native flora and enjoy a day of recreation.

Carlos Vásquez, Community Development Supervisor, said that “this activity is part of our territorial development strategy, which seeks to promote social well-being and encourage the participation of local communities. Through the opening of our divisional assets, the link with the community is strengthened, allowing neighbors to explore the regional heritage. In addition, it provides valuable personal enrichment, highlighting our commitment to social value.”

Pamela Barahona, a resident of the town, said: “All the people who participated in the visit had never been here. I loved exploring nature, everything is really beautiful.”

For the attendees, this was their first time visiting Hacienda Cauquenes. Throughout the day, they not only toured the facilities, but also participated in an informative talk about the sustainability and circular economy initiatives being developed there.

Heritage and community

Hacienda Cauquenes is closely linked to the history of El Teniente and currently has a heritage house, which is part of the old El Parrón Mining Camp.

Janet Albornoz added that “I thought the infrastructure was impressive. The actions they have implemented are very valuable and worthy of being replicated. What caught my attention the most were the interior rooms, especially the dining room.”

The Hacienda also houses the Mediterranean Ecosystems Research Centre (CEIEM), the result of an agreement between the El Teniente Division and the Forestry Institute (INFOR). This centre has transformed the Hacienda nursery into a benchmark for the production of native plants in danger of conservation, promoting important environmental commitments.

Paola Villarroel Dinamarca, a resident of Gultro, said that “I didn’t know the Hacienda, but I am impressed by how well it is maintained. I was struck by the structure of the house and the care it has taken. In addition, they have given added value to the space, which reinforces their commitment to sustainability.”

The activity is part of Codelco's Community Visits Program, which in 2023 allowed more than 4,500 people to participate in 80 visits to Coya. This program, which organizes tours for community organizations and educational establishments, seeks to strengthen the link between the community and the company, promoting learning and connection with the environment.