"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
2 May 2017
Last week, El Salvador imposed a ban on mining which made it the first country in the world to ban prospection, exploration, exploitation, extraction or processing of metallic minerals. This landmark move has been adopted to protect the environment from the ill effects of mining.
President of the Salvadoran Ecological Unit, Mauricio Sermeno said that the law was necessary in the face of an industry which, far from bringing any benefit to communities, brings serious pollution to water sources and the environment.
The lawmakers had approved the bill in March and El Salvador made history by becoming the first country in the world to ban metal mining outright. Although many locals had complained about the environmental risks from toxic metals, rampant mining took place in many Latin American countries because such countries thrive on mineral exports.
The new law was enforced when it was signed by President Salvador Sanchez Ceren. El Salvador has pledged to protect its rural communities that are threatened by proposed mining projects. A non government camping group Mining Watch hopes the Salvadoran legislation will set an example for other countries in the region.
