The mining companies operating in Peru must invest more than one billion dollars up to 2006 to mitigate the environmental damages caused by their activities, said the Ministry of Energy and Mines. The funds are to go towards environmental management programs included in the contracts granting mining concessions.

Between January and June, more than 50 complaints of environmental damages caused by mining were filed by local citizens and environmental organizations.

The complaints generally arise from citizen environmental monitoring committees, which are recognized by authorities, that have been set up in mining areas.

Mining is the engine of Peru's economy, accounting for 40 percent of exports. The industry provides 60,000 direct jobs, and creates indirect employment for an additional 240,000 people.