Latin America Leadership Program

By Guadalupe Ramirez

As an environmental professional in Argentine Patagonia, Silvio learned early in life the value of resilience, seeing every challenge as an opportunity to adapt, relearn, and move forward. This perspective is reflected in his role as a member of Cooperativa Basura Cero, as Environmental Manager at Pan American Silver Corp.’s Cerro Moro mining operation in Santa Cruz, Argentina, in his family life, and in his passion for mountaineering.

Nature is an integral part of his life, and concepts such as the circular economy and waste circularity inspire him both personally and professionally because of their positive environmental, social, and economic impact.

As one of the 13 honorary members of Cooperativa Basura Cero, the project through which he participated in ILG, he applies his professional expertise to help build a circular economy in the city of Caleta Olivia, in southern Argentina. He is currently focused on addressing energy challenges for the operation of the plastic extrusion equipment, continuing testing activities, and increasing production. At the same time, as a participant in the InnovaLab of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), he works with the regional team to accelerate the project while also pursuing a Diploma in Governance and Public Innovation.

From the private sector, in his role as Environmental Manager at Pan American Silver Corp. and Cerro Moro Mine, he coordinates committees focused on environmental management, water stewardship, energy, and climate change, while also overseeing the implementation of the internationally recognized environmental protocols contained in the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) framework of the Mining Association of Canada.

In May 2026, Cerro Moro’s “Circularity of Waste” initiative was named a finalist for the TSM® Environmental Excellence Award. The initiative gained international recognition for transforming traditional waste management practices into a model of environmental innovation, community collaboration, and long-term sustainability.

In 2024, this initiative recycled 264 tonnes of scrap metal, 33.81 tonnes of mixed recyclable materials, and 28.34 tonnes of cardboard, while diverting 297.81 tonnes of waste from landfills. In 2025, the initiative continued to scale, recycling 727.74 tonnes of materials, including 688.46 tonnes of processed scrap metal, 32.68 tonnes of cardboard, and 12.07 tonnes of recovered plastic, while also reusing 256 tonnes of wood. As a result, more than 50% of the non-hazardous industrial waste generated at Cerro Moro was diverted through recycling and recovery initiatives, achieving a diversion rate of over 68% when wood waste reuse was also included.

“Circular economy and circular mining are not abstract concepts; rather, they are practical tools capable of generating positive environmental, social, and economic benefits.” — Silvio Romano (ILG 2024, Argentina)

Both at Cooperativa Basura Cero and Pan American Silver, Silvio has applied the knowledge and skills developed through ILG, particularly in strategic planning, roadmap design, traceability, leadership development, and building stronger relationships for collaborative work with municipalities, waste collectors, and organizations such as Fundación Garrahan.

One Mountain, One Goal

For several years, Silvio has practiced rock climbing and mountaineering, which—alongside his love for his family—is one of the most meaningful aspects of his life.

Many of the qualities that have helped him reach the summit of countless mountains, including planning, perseverance, and resilience, are principles he applies to other areas of his life.

From his perspective, a powerful metaphor is that achieving a goal often requires multiple attempts. If a goal is viewed as a mountain, success may not come on the first try, but with better preparation and a new approach, the chances of reaching the summit increase significantly.

“I have learned that the mountain (the goal) will always be there, and reaching the summit requires self-improvement, continuous preparation, resilience, and perseverance to keep trying as many times as necessary.” — Silvio Romano (ILG 2024, Argentina)

This mindset was also reflected in his persistence when applying to ILG. He was accepted on his second application, consistent with his belief that when you know what you want, you must keep pursuing it and try as many times as necessary.

Congratulations, Silvio! Keep transforming challenges into opportunities and inspiring others to lead with purpose and create a multiplying impact.