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Highlights
- Aclara honored at the CONECTA 2024 Business Awards for its Circular Mineral Harvesting process.
- The company ranked third in the Interconnection category for advancing SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
- Aclara's process uses 100% recycled water and achieves a 95% water recirculation rate.
- Award highlights the company's commitment to sustainability in the rare earths sector and community collaboration.
Aclara Resources Inc. (TSX:ARA) is proud to announce that it has been recognized by the United Nations ("UN") Global Compact Chile Network for its innovative Circular Mineral Harvesting process. Aclara's contribution to advancing the Sustainable Development Goal ("SDG") 6: Clean Water and Sanitation was honored at the CONECTA 2024 Business Awards in Santiago, Chile, on December 10, 2024. The company secured third place in the Interconnection category among 166 submissions from 61 companies across various industries.
Circular Mineral Harvesting Process: A Sustainable Breakthrough
Aclara's Circular Mineral Harvesting process, implemented at the Penco project, is a patented and transformative solution that enables the sustainable extraction of rare earth elements in a closed-circuit system. The process utilizes 100% recycled water, completely eliminating reliance on natural water sources and achieving a 95% water recirculation rate. The company’s initiative was recognized for its potential to revolutionize resource management within the rare earth industry, promoting sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.
Global Recognition for Aclara’s Sustainability Efforts
The UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, recognized Aclara's significant efforts toward sustainability. The Compact encourages businesses worldwide to adopt responsible and sustainable practices, contributing to social and environmental well-being. The prestigious award is given to businesses that demonstrate innovation and a strong commitment to achieving the SDGs. Aclara’s Circular Mineral Harvesting process was evaluated by a distinguished panel of 48 experts, who lauded its innovative approach.
Ramón Barúa, CEO of Aclara Resources, expressed, "At Aclara, we are deeply committed to sustainable water usage and sourcing. This recognition highlights the impact of our patented process, which eliminates the use of natural water sources and recycles almost all the water used. This achievement sets a new standard for sustainability in the rare earth sector and reflects our collaborative efforts with the Penco community to preserve vital resources like water."
Supporting Communities and Advancing the Circular Economy
Margarita Ducci, Executive Director of Global Compact Chile, praised Aclara's Circular Mineral Harvesting process as a remarkable example of how companies can integrate sustainability into their operations. She commented, "Aclara's initiative represents a significant advancement in the circular economy, enabling the sustainable production of rare earths essential for electromobility and clean energy. Their model not only maximizes resource efficiency but also supports biodiversity and local development, demonstrating that it is possible to innovate and protect the environment while contributing to economic progress."
Looking Ahead
This recognition underscores Aclara's commitment to sustainable practices and its leadership in advancing the rare earth industry. The company continues to innovate with its Circular Mineral Harvesting process, reinforcing its strategic focus on sustainability and collaboration with local communities. As Aclara moves forward, it remains dedicated to achieving both environmental and economic sustainability, contributing to the global shift towards a more sustainable future.
