This Act regulates the exploration and exploitation of minerals and other substances of organic origin as defined in article 1, but not certain gasses, clay, sand, etc.
The Act consists of 193 articles divided into 13 Chapters: definitions and general provisions (1); Permits for exploration and exploitation (2); Permits for the storage of mined substances (3); The care for good practice in execution of works (4); Financial provisions (5); Advisors (6); reporting (7); Supervision and enforcement (8); Guarantee Fund for Mining Damage (9); Judicial protection (10); Transitory provisions (11); Repeal and amendment of Laws (12); Final provisions (13).
A permit shall be required for activities listed in article 6. The permit shall be obtained from the Minister of economic Affairs. Article 33 requires the holder of a permit to carry out activities in such a manner so as to minimize damage to the environment. Article 38 concerns a separate environment permit and a mining plan that shall be submitted by the applicant for a permit. Article 49 empowers the Minister to issue rules relative to the protection of the environment.