The San Cristóbal mine is a large open-pit silver, lead, and zinc mine located in the Potosí Department of Bolivia, approximately 160 kilometers southeast of Uyuni. It is one of the largest mines in Bolivia and is owned and operated by Sumitomo Corporation of Japan.
The mine began production in August 2007. Its ore body is a polymetallic deposit hosted within a dacitic volcanic structure. The mining operation involves conventional open-pit methods, including drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling. The ore is processed on-site in a large concentrator plant that produces separate silver, lead, and zinc concentrates for export.
Water management is a significant aspect of the mine's operation, given the arid environment of the Altiplano. The mine reuses a substantial amount of water and has implemented measures to minimize water consumption and protect local water resources.
The San Cristóbal mine is a significant contributor to the Bolivian economy, providing employment and generating revenue through mineral exports. However, its operations have also raised environmental and social concerns, including potential impacts on water quality, air quality, and local communities. Sumitomo Corporation has implemented environmental management plans and community development programs to address these concerns.