Environmentalists had criticized the proposed open-pit mine and port project in the north of Chile close to the National Humboldt Penguin Reserve due to its potential ecological impact on a unique area known for its natural diversity.But the area comprises a nature reserve encompassing three islands that are home to 80 percent of the world's Humboldt penguins, which are an endangered species, as well as whales, sea lions and the world's smallest otter species.It first underwent an environmental impact evaluation a decade ago before it was rejected in 2017 by the socialist government of then-president Michelle Bachelet.The leaked papers said a large part of the operation was carried out in the British Virgin Islands, a tax haven.Despite the embarrassing revelations, the Senate voted against impeaching Pinera -- it failed to reach the two-thirds majority needed to do so -- thus sparing him a potential jail sentence of up to five years."