NEWS RELEASE: WRI report warns of increased risks from mining in vulnerable ecosystems
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WASHINGTON, DC, November 12, 2003 -- A new report released today by the World Resources Institute warns of increased risks from mining in critical but unprotected ecosystems throughout the world. Mining and Critical Ecosystems: Mapping the Risks reports that three-fourths of the world’s active mines and exploratory areas are located in vulnerable watersheds and biologically-rich ecosystems. This is the first study to use digital mapping technology to identify environmentally or socially vulnerable areas to mining. It addresses the underlying questions that form the basis of the World Bank's Extractive Industries Review (EIR), a controversial evaluation of whether and under what conditions the bank should invest in mining. The EIR’s final report is expected by December 30, 2003. “This tool will raise a red flag if more analysis is needed by the World Bank and other financial institutions” said Jonathan Lash, president of WRI. “Taking into consideration the environmental and social vulnerabilities mentioned in this report will help financial institutions make decisions and reduce financial risks.” Mining and Critical Ecosystems concludes that although current debates often center on “no go” areas or land that is already subject to legal protection, mining in vulnerable and unprotected ecosystems may pose an even greater threat. Three quarters of active mines and exploratory sites overlap with or are within 10 kilometers of areas of high conservation value. It also concludes that many developing countries that are dependent on mines for income lack important safeguards to ensure responsible mining, such as the ability to enforce laws, control corruption, and foster a strong civil society. Nearly one-fourth of active mines and exploration sites are located in countries where governance structures are weakest. “In these countries, continued investment in mining will be unlikely to contribute to poverty alleviation unless governance improves,” said Marta Miranda, a senior WRI research associate and one of the authors of the report. “Financial institutions should also re-think support for any mine located in especially vulnerable areas, such as strictly protected areas, or those that propose environmentally risky practices, such as dumping mine waste in rivers.” Mining and Critical Ecosystems is based on one of the most comprehensive global mining data sets available which includes nearly 4,500 active mines and exploration sites for the mining of metals and precious gemstones. The authors developed indicators addressing three major themes– vulnerabilities, natural hazards, and other contributing factors – which they mapped at a global scale and in two case studies. The authors applied the global framework to detailed environmental and social data from the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. These countries were chosen based on the importance of mining in their economies and the exceptionally high value of their ecosystems. While the Philippines has suffered extensive habitat destruction, Papua New Guinea’s ecosystems are largely intact. The case studies indicate that more than a quarter of Papua New Guinea’s fragile forests occur within oil, gas, and mining concessions. In the Philippines, more than half of all exploration areas and mining leases overlap with areas of high ecological value and majority are in earthquake-prone locations. A significant proportion of mines in both countries are exposed to more than one vulnerability or risk. In Papua New Guinea, nearly three quarters of all mines and exploration sites overlap with areas deemed to be environmentally and socially vulnerable. “Areas with multiple vulnerabilities should give pause to financial institutions considering investing in mining projects, especially in countries such as Papua New Guinea, where governance is weak,” said Phil Shearman of the University of Papua New Guinea and one of the authors of the report. Mining and Critical Ecosystems is authored by Marta Miranda, Philip Burris, Jessie Froy Bingcang, Phil Shearman, Jose Oliver Briones, Antonio La Viña, and Stephen Menard. Funding was provided by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Tiffany & Company Foundation, the World Bank Extractive Industries Review, and the Netherlands Committee for the IUCN. -30- |
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