The Andes

Peru: mining company rejects Conga referendum

The Yanacocha mining company issued a statement warning that a consulta by local villagers on the Conga project could “place in danger all the mineral industry” of Peru.

The Andes

Peru: water authority rejects mine expansion

Peru’s conflict-ridden Yanacocha mining company is appealing a ruling of  the National Water Authority barring expansion of its open-pit operations into new lands.

The Amazon

Brazil: Amazon peoples declare against hydro

The Munduruku indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon charge that the government is militarizing their lands to quell opposition to mega-scale hydroelectric projects.

The Andes

Peru: miners block Pan-American Highway

Informal miners in Peru’s Arequipa region declared an open-ended civil strike, blocking the Pan-American Highway at various points before being cleared by the National Police. 

Central America

Costa Rica upholds ban on open-pit mining

Costa Rica’s Constitutional Tribunal unanimously rejected a case brought by the country’s Mining and Industry Association challenging the 2010 ban on open-pit mining.

Southern Cone

Argentina: Barrick mines no threat to glaciers?

San Juan province’s government has released a report claiming that two mines owned by Barrick Gold will do no damage to glaciers near the facilities high in the Andes.

The Andes

Peru: new mobilization against Conga project

Campesinos in Peru’s northern Cajamarca region began the year with a renewed campaign against the pending Conga mining project, pledging to occupy the concession area.