El Salvador’s mining ban has been lifted, raising concerns about environmental damage as the San Sebastián River suffers contamination from previous mining activities. President Bukele cites significant gold deposits as economic opportunity, but environmentalists challenge these claims based on past ecological devastation. The debate continues over the balance between potential economic benefits and environmental risks.
The San Sebastián River has lost its fish population due to contamination from an abandoned gold mine, raising concerns as El Salvador reinstates mining. The ban, active since 2017, was lifted in December upon President Nayib Bukele’s request, citing undisclosed studies that claim gold deposits valued at $131 billion could enhance the economy, which has faced slow growth since the 2001 dollarization. Environmentalists challenge these assertions, referencing the harmful impacts witnessed in areas like the San Sebastián River.
In Santa Rosa de Lima, 172 kilometers from the capital, wastewater from the inactive Cerro San Sebastián mine pollutes local water sources. Community leader Graciela Funes presents samples demonstrating the contamination, emphasizing, “Here are the facts.” Another environmentalist, Vidalina Morales, stresses the necessity of community unity against the mining initiatives, recalling that a 2016 human rights report highlighted significant negative impacts on water quality caused by the mine.
Historically, the San Sebastián mine significantly contributed to gold extraction in Central America from the early 20th century. Biologist Cidia Cortés notes that the longstanding operation resulted in severe environmental degradation and health issues for surrounding communities. Although the government revoked a concession granted to Commerce Group in 2006, artisanal miners now search within the abandoned tunnels. Cortés emphasizes the unresolved state of environmental and health damages, writing, “Resolving the environmental and health damage left by mining projects was a pending debt of the State.”
Concerns persist regarding potential contamination of significant waterways, such as the Lempa River, but some view mining as a path to economic progress. Political analyst Nelson Flores argues for the potential benefits of mining to improve living standards, countering the fears posed by environmentalists. He suggests that advancements in mining technology could mitigate environmental harm, stating it would be absurd to deny economic development opportunities.
Critics of the renewed mining efforts, such as Ricardo Navarro from the Salvadoran Center for Appropriate Technology, claim that estimates of gold reserves in El Salvador are inflated. He explains that the concentration of gold is minimal, suggesting little economic benefit against potential environmental damage. Economist Julia Martínez echoes concern over the authenticity of studies supporting gold extraction, suggesting that President Bukele may be misled about the actual viability of pursuing mining concessions and the resulting economic gain.
The revival of mining in El Salvador raises serious environmental and health concerns, particularly evident in the contamination of local water sources. While proponents argue for economic development potential, critics highlight the longstanding issues caused by mining activity. As the situation unfolds, addressing environmental ramifications will be crucial to ensure sustainable practices and protect the well-being of affected communities.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
