Colombia issues first decree regulating mine closure with labor and environmental safeguards

The Colombian government issued Decreto 0742 of 2026, the first comprehensive regulation for mine closure, making it a mandatory phase in all mining projects. The decree, presented by the Ministries of Mines and Energy, Environment, and Labor, aims to prevent environmental and social liabilities by enforcing closure planning from the start of operations Source: La Silla Vacía.

Key provisions

• Closure modalities: The decree defines five closure types — progressive, temporary, anticipatory, final, and gradual technical closure for small-scale and formalization mining — tailored to project needs Source: Infobae.
• Labor protections: Companies must create worker censuses, pay all wages and benefits, provide occupational medical exams, and offer retraining programs through SENA. Unions gain a formal role in negotiating closure plans Source: Portafolio.
• Environmental requirements: Closure plans must include restoration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land uses. The decree regulates the identification and management of environmental liabilities Source: La Silla Vacía.
• Financial guarantees: Mining titles must set aside funds for closure costs, ensuring resources are available for post-closure monitoring Source: Portafolio.

Reactions

Minister of Mines Edwin Palma said the decree "converts mine closure into an integral responsibility toward workers, communities, and territory" Source: Infobae. Acting Environment Minister Irene Vélez highlighted that decades without regulation left territories saddled with environmental and social liabilities Source: La Silla Vacía. The regulation is part of the government's "just energy transition" agenda.