Community
The Company recognizes that it is imperative that environmental and social stewardship be at the forefront of operations and business planning process. Andean continues to add to existing environmental and social initiatives, and has hired additional staff to work with the community of Perito Moreno, the nearest neighbour, located approximately 80 kilometres northwest of the project area.
The establishment of a local office in Perito Moreno will help serve as a link between the Company and the community. It is expected that Andean’s presence in the community will continue to expand as the Cerro Negro project evolves.
Education is critical to the success of the community, and the Company has established three education initiatives designed to support the long-term prosperity of Perito Moreno:
- Sponsorship of a non-formal education plan in agriculture and livestock;
- The establishment of environmental internships at the Cerro Negro site, made available to five students from the local high school; and,
- The establishment of scholarships, awarded to seven students from Perito Moreno, to attend university outside the province of Santa Cruz, with the hopes they will return to Perito Moreno to either fill a position with the Company or accept another opportunity in the community.