FerradaNehme

Clients praise the lawyers at FerradaNehme‘s environmental law practice for ’always seeking business-oriented solutions and operational continuity‘. The group works closely with multinational clients, government authorities, and local communities to reduce environmental risk and prevent conflicts. With a strong focus on permitting and the development of complex mining, energy, and waste projects, the team also advises on compliance programmes and risk assessments, and has become a key player in environmental litigation, sanction procedures, and emerging areas such as recycling legislation. Recent significant matters include representing Andes Iron in litigation concerning the controversial Dominga seaport and mining venture; advising BHP on an environmental damage lawsuit brought against the Escondida mining project by an Atacama indigenous community; and representing Codelco in the countries largest environmental public policy lawsuit brought by a Chilean Fisherman’s Union. As head of the practice, Patricio Leyton can bring over 25 years’ experience to bear, especially as regards environmental assessments and stakeholder negotiations. ’Very approachable and eager to cooperate’, Valeria Ruz is widely recognised for her comprehensive legal and technical project insight, and has expertise advising on criminal environmental risks. Drawing on both public and private sector experience, Carola Salamanca  focuses on permitting, land use and recycling law. Associate practice director Claudio Tapia is noted for his work on high-profile sanctioning cases and his ability to tackle complex regulatory issues. Former senior associate and environmental litigator María-Pilar Dominguez left the firm in May 2024.