Socio-spatial transformations by large-scale mining operations in the Central Andes: Espinar, Peru

Mining operations significantly reshape the socio-spatial dynamics in Andean territories, influencing both human communities and local ecosystems. This study examines large-scale mining projects in Espinar (central Andes in southeastern Peru), focusing on spatial (infrastructural, rural-urban morphology, and natural resources) and social (land permutation and involuntary resettlement) aspects. Data were collected through documents and maps from regional governmental institutions, complemented by interviews with local stakeholders. The findings reveal significant alterations in water resource management, affecting agricultural production and reshaping the Andean landscape in Espinar. Additionally, the displacement of rural communities has led to urban expansion, modifications in settlement patterns, and shifts in traditional architectural typology. This study underscores the urgent need for a territorial governance framework that incorporates social and environmental safeguards to balance resource extraction with sustainable development. A deeper understanding of these socio-spatial transformations can inform policy strategies aimed at mitigating mining-induced disruptions in Andean communities.