Activists call for shutdown of Guatemala gold mining operation

Environmental Activists Rally Against Canadian-Owned Gold Mine

Environmental activists gathered in small boats on a lake between El Salvador and Guatemala, waving banners and shouting “no to mining” to protest against the Canadian-owned Cerro Blanco gold mine. The activists fear that the recent approval for the conversion of the site from an underground to an open-pit mine will lead to contamination of Lake Guija, which serves as an essential water source for the region.

Concern for the Environment and Future Generations

Claudia Rodriguez, a member of an association of women environment defenders, emphasized the detrimental impact of mining projects on the environment and the future of the local communities. She expressed the determination of the activists to see the closure of Cerro Blanco, even if it means making sacrifices.

Reversal of Approval and Environmental Threats

The decision by the previous Guatemalan government to approve the conversion of Cerro Blanco into an open-pit mine raised “serious concerns” in El Salvador. However, the new Guatemalan government has announced its intention to reverse the approval due to identified “anomalies.” Opponents of the mining project argue that the use of chemicals in mineral extraction poses a significant threat to the environment, with potential consequences extending beyond national borders.

Impacts on the Lempa River and Future Generations

Salvadoran environmental campaigner Ricardo Navarro highlighted the potential harm that the use of chemicals in the Cerro Blanco mine could have on the Lempa River, which serves as a vital water source for El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. The pollution of the river could have far-reaching implications for humans, animals, and plants in the region.

Protection of Natural Resources for Future Generations

Videlina Morales, an anti-mining activist, expressed her concerns for the future of Lake Guija and the livelihoods of local fishermen dependent on its waters. She emphasized the importance of respecting natural resources and called for the closure of the Cerro Blanco mine to safeguard the environment for future generations and ensure sustainable development practices.

By highlighting the potential transnational impacts of the Cerro Blanco mining project, environmental activists are drawing attention to the interconnectedness of environmental issues and the need for collaborative efforts to protect shared resources. Through their advocacy and protests, these activists are advocating for environmentally sustainable practices and policies that prioritize the well-being of communities and ecosystems.