Mining giant BHP Billiton is under threat of strike by workers in one of the mines it manages. The largest copper mine in the world, Chile’s Escondida mine, has been embroiled in a conflict with its workers over wages and benefits.

Rio Tinto is also an investor in the mine.

Read the story told by Marketplace here or by CNBC here.

The Chilean miners join the ranks of BHP workers globally who have complained about the companies. Website BHP Billiton Watch tracks issues raised here.

In a declining market, the strike could bolster copper prices. Once again a reminder that we all benefit by investing in more copper recycling and less copper mining.

Escondida Mine photo by Francesco Degasperi | AFP | Getty Images