MINING: the possibility of reallocating legal reserve areas in Mato Grosso (MT) has been approved

Mato Grosso has approved Bill of Law No. 64/2023 which changes the State´s Environmental Code, thereby authorizing the reallocation of legal reserve areas for mining purposes, so long as certain conditions are met.

Considering that mineral deposits cannot be moved, the new law allows legal reserve areas to be moved to other rural properties. However, mining in such areas will only be allowed if it is proved that there is no economically viable alternative for said mining in another area.

If the legal reserve is relocated, then there must be an environmental compensation whereby the new reserve must be 10% larger in size. Furthermore, the new area must be located in the same biome in Mato Grosso and have native or regenerated vegetation. The mining company must provide an environmental impact study and be granted authorization from the State Environmental Department  (“Sema”).

In addition, the Bill of Law presents the possibility of transforming the relocated area into a Private Natural Heritage Reserve (RPPN), if it meets the conditions provided for in said Bill of Law. 

The final wording of the Bill of Law has been approved by the legislative power and is pending the governor’s approval.