Atico Mining Update on Permitting Process for the La Plata Project in Ecuador
MWN-AI** Summary
Atico Mining Corporation has achieved crucial milestones in the permitting process for its La Plata project in Ecuador, as announced on February 9, 2026. The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition has granted several key permits, including the Environmental License (EL), registration in the Waste Generator Registry, and registration in the Chemical Substances Registry. These approvals mark significant progress toward the project's construction and operation while emphasizing Atico's commitment to responsible development and regulatory compliance.
CEO Fernando E. Ganoza highlighted that the granting of these permits culminates years of efforts, including successful exploration, completion of an environmental impact study in early 2023, and a definitive feasibility study published in August 2024. With the project nearing a construction-ready status, management is focused on advancing remaining auxiliary permits, aiming for a construction decision by mid-2026.
The EL approval follows an extensive environmental regularization process initiated in March 2022, which involved a comprehensive Environmental Impact Study (EIA). This study assessed potential environmental impacts and incorporated a robust Environmental Management Plan (EMP) aligning with national and international standards. Notably, more than 90% of the local community expressed support for the EL during the public consultation process completed in August 2025.
In parallel, Atico has developed strategies for waste management and chemical substance use, ensuring compliance with rigorous environmental regulations. The company is mandated to provide monthly reports on waste handling and personnel involved in the management of chemical substances must receive ongoing training.
Atico plans to move forward with construction, which is expected to generate over 600 direct jobs and additional indirect employment opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to the communities it operates in.
MWN-AI** Analysis
Atico Mining Corporation's recent announcement regarding key permits for the La Plata project in Ecuador is a significant development for investors and stakeholders. The granted Environmental License, along with registrations in the Waste and Waste Generator Registry and the Chemical Substances Registry, marks a substantial advancement in the project’s permitting process, positioning Atico closer to the anticipated construction phase.
The completion of extensive environmental impact studies and social consultations indicates a robust commitment to responsible mining practices, which can enhance the company's reputation in a market increasingly focused on sustainability. Notably, over 90% of local residents supported the project during the environmental consultation process, reflecting strong community backing that can mitigate operational risks during development and operation.
Investors should note that the La Plata project not only demonstrates potential for copper and gold production but also promises to create significant employment opportunities, generating over 600 direct jobs and 1,800 indirect jobs during construction. Such economic contributions to the area may also foster positive relations with local stakeholders, further solidifying Atico's position in the region.
Looking ahead, the company is on track for a construction decision in the second or third quarter of 2026. This timeline is crucial as it could catalyze a rally in Atico's stock price, particularly if the company continues to meet its permitting milestones and progress successfully through the construction phase.
However, it is vital for investors to remain aware of potential risks, including fluctuating commodity prices and operational challenges associated with mine development in Ecuador. Comprehensive due diligence is recommended, and interested parties should closely monitor further updates from Atico as the project moves forward. Overall, Atico provides an intriguing investment opportunity, particularly for those focused on emerging mining ventures in the Latin American market.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Atico Mining Corporation (the “Company” or “Atico”) (TSX.V: ATY | OTCID: ATCMF) is pleased to announce that the Ministry of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition (MAATE) (now the Ministry of Environment and Energy) has granted key additional permits and authorizations for the La Plata project. These include the Environmental License (EL), registration in the Waste and Waste Generator Registry (GDPR), and in the Chemical Substances Registry (RSQ). These milestones represent further progress toward the construction and operation of the La Plata project while reinforcing our commitment to regulatory compliance and responsible development.
“The receipt of key permits and authorizations in recent periods, including the EL for the La Plata project, represents the culmination of years of dedicated effort. This includes successful exploration and resource expansion, completion of the environmental impact study in early 2023, and the publication of the NI 43-101 compliant definitive feasibility study in August 2024” said Fernando E. Ganoza, CEO. “The La Plata project is nearing construction-ready status, with management advancing the remaining auxiliary permits, positioning the project to be ready for a construction decision in the second or third quarter of this year.”
Environmental License
The environmental regularization process for the mining project commenced in March 2022 with the submission of the Environmental Impact Study (EIA). This comprehensive document provides a detailed technical analysis of all environmental and social components associated with the construction, operation, and closure phases of the mine. It assesses potential impacts that may arise from these activities and incorporates a robust Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The EMP outlines specific plans and programs aimed at preventing and mitigating environmental impacts, as well as initiatives for environmental training, ongoing monitoring and follow-up, rehabilitation and restoration of affected areas, community relations, and other relevant management measures. Both the EIA and the EMP were developed in full alignment with the highest national and international standards, ensuring technical rigor and strict compliance with applicable environmental regulations.
As part of the process, the EIA underwent extensive socialization through citizen participation mechanisms for environmental consultation, in accordance with the provisions of Ecuador's Organic Environmental Code and its regulations, rulings from the Constitutional Court, and the core principles of the Escazú Agreement, which emphasize access to information, public participation, and justice in environmental decision-making. The consultation process successfully concluded in August 2025, with the execution of the environmental consultation itself. During this phase, more than 90% of the population residing in the Area of Direct Influence expressed their support for the granting of the Environmental License for the mining project.
Waste Generator Registry and Chemical Substances Registry
The company conducted a thorough analysis of the wastes and residues that could be generated throughout mining activities, with the primary goal of establishing an efficient, preventive, and fully traceable waste management system, from generation through to final disposal. As a key obligation under the granted authorizations, the company is required to submit to the Environmental Authority a detailed set of measures and strategies designed to prevent, reduce, or minimize the generation of waste and residues. Temporary storage of these materials within the project facilities will be managed under strict technical controls and rigorous safety protocols to ensure the protection of soil and water bodies, prevent any emissions into the environment, and maintain full compliance with applicable environmental regulations.
With respect to the RSQ, the company performed comprehensive studies, laboratory tests, and evaluations of alternatives to accurately determine the types and quantities of chemical substances to be used in the metallurgical process for mineral recovery. This technical and operational approach ensures efficient, controlled, and environmentally responsible use of these substances. To guarantee proper management, the company is obligated to submit monthly reports to the Environmental Authority detailing the use, handling, storage, and transportation of chemical substances. Additionally, all personnel involved in their handling will receive specific and ongoing training on the associated hazards and risks, as well as on the procedures and response actions to be followed in the event of any incident.
The granting of these key permits and authorizations represents a major milestone for the La Plata project, firmly consolidating our plans to commence construction of Ecuador’s second medium-scale mine this year. It further strengthens our unwavering commitment to developing and operating the project in a responsible and transparent manner. We remain dedicated to working in close coordination with the communities within the area of influence, while fully complying with Ecuadorian legislation and adhering to the highest international standards and best practices in environmental and social responsibility. During construction and operation activities, the project will generate more than 600 direct employment positions and between 1200 to 1800 indirect employment positions in the construction stage and more than 300 direct employment positions and between 600 and 900 indirect employment positions once in commercial production
About Atico Mining Corporation
Atico is a growth-oriented Company, focused on exploring, developing and mining copper and gold projects in Latin America. The Company generates significant cash flow through the operation of the El Roble mine and is developing its high-grade La Plata VMS project in Ecuador. The Company is also pursuing additional acquisition of advanced stage opportunities. For more information, please visit www.aticomining.com.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
Fernando E. Ganoza
CEO
Atico Mining Corporation
Trading symbols: TSX.V: ATY | OTCID: ATCMF
Investor Relations
Igor Dutina
Tel: +1.604.633.9022
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The securities being offered have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the ‘‘U.S. Securities Act’’), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to, or for the account or benefit of, a "U.S. person" (as defined in Regulation S of the U.S. Securities Act) unless pursuant to an exemption therefrom. This press release is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of the Company in any jurisdiction.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
This announcement includes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation the use of net proceeds, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties and are based on certain factors and assumptions. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; uncertainty of estimates of capital and operating costs; the need to obtain additional financing to maintain its interest in and/or explore and develop the Company’s mineral projects; uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones for the Company’s mineral projects; and other risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form (“AIF”) dated September 4, 2024, filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.com and as available on the Company's website for further details.
FAQ**
How does the recent approval of key permits for the La Plata project impact Atico Mining Corp ATCMF's overall strategy and financial outlook for 2026?
What specific measures will Atico Mining Corp ATCMF implement to ensure environmental compliance and community engagement during the construction of the La Plata project?
In light of the recent environmental consultations, how does Atico Mining Corp ATCMF plan to address any potential concerns from local communities as construction begins?
With the projected employment generation from the La Plata project, how does Atico Mining Corp ATCMF intend to support local workforce development and economic growth in the surrounding area?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Atico Mining Corp (OTC: ATCMF).
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