ENVIRONMENTAL-IMPACT IN SANDY BEACHES OF COPPER MINE TAILINGS AT CHANARAL, CHILE
Abstract
Since 1938, untreated Cu mine tailings of Potrerillos and El Salvador had been disposed into the sea at Chanaral, Chile (26.degree.21'' latitude south, 70.degree.42'' longitude west). Over 220 .times. 106 tons of sediments had been dumped. This pollution caused drastic geomorpholigcal changes in the .apprx. 16 km contaminated area. The occurrence of new artificial beaches and modification of coastal contours were reported. Sandy beach macrofauna monitoring (1975-1982) demonstrated a progressive lowering of density and biomass in those communities affected by Cu mine tailings.