El Salvador’s Mining Re-legalization: An Environmental Crisis Looms
El Salvador’s re-legalization of mining has raised significant environmental concerns, particularly regarding the San Sebastián River, previously decimated by mining pollution. Although proponents argue that mining could boost the economy, critics and environmentalists warn of potential ecological damage and doubt the accuracy of claims regarding gold deposits. The historical context of mining in the region underscores the urgency of addressing its lasting impacts.
The San Sebastián River is devoid of fish due to the contamination stemming from an old gold mine, sparking concerns as El Salvador re-legalizes mining. President Nayib Bukele repealed the ban on metal mining, initially imposed in 2017, citing a study which suggests substantial gold deposits in the country, potentially worth $131 billion, or 380% of GDP. However, environmentalists express skepticism regarding these claims and emphasize the detrimental effects of mining, particularly evidenced by the San Sebastián River’s contamination.
In Santa Rosa de Lima, wastewater from the inactive Cerro San Sebastián mine has polluted the river since its closure in 2006. Community leader Graciela Funes, who collected a sample revealing the river’s copper-colored liquid, states, “Here are the facts.” Environmentalist Vidalina Morales advocates for a collective stance against mining, recalling a 2016 human rights report detailing the severe impact on water quality in La Unión’s agricultural region, where locals have resorted to purchasing water to survive.
Historically, the San Sebastián mine was the most prolific in Central America, yielding over 32 tons of gold between 1904 and 1953. Biologist Cidia Cortés discusses the extensively harmful legacy of the mine, particularly the disease and environmental destruction it left behind. The government’s past allowance of an American company to exploit the mine ended in 2006, yet artisanal miners continue their work underground. “Resolving the environmental and health damage left by mining projects was a pending debt of the State,” she states, revealing that this debt continues to grow with the resumption of mining activities.
Concerns exist surrounding the potential contamination of the Lempa River, which is essential for water supply to 70% of the capital’s residents. Despite these fears, some support the return to mining, believing it offers a chance for economic development. Political analyst Nelson Flores argues that modern extraction methods could mitigate environmental impacts, asserting the importance of considering economic progress for the nation.
Critics, including Ricardo Navarro, president of the Salvadoran Center for Appropriate Technology, challenge the purported gold reserves, suggesting they have been overstated. Economists, like Julia Martínez, express doubt regarding the president’s motivations. Martínez asserts, “I think [the president] has been duped,” noting that foreign mining companies may exploit the situation for minimal royalties.
The reintroduction of mining in El Salvador has ignited a contentious debate, highlighting the delicate balance between economic aspirations and environmental protection. As community members and activists voice their concerns about water contamination and health risks linked to past mining practices, proponents of mining emphasize potential economic benefits. The ongoing discussion reveals a significant need for rigorous evaluation of mining practices and their long-term impacts on both the environment and local populations.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
