New Mining Activities in Bougainville Spark Concerns

A Canadian mining company, Island Passage Exploration (IPX), has announced the commencement of phase four of an exploration program at Isina in the autonomous region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea. This development comes amidst concerns over environmental and human rights issues related to the former Panguna mine.

The Context: A Troubled History

The Panguna mine, operated by Bougainville Copper Ltd, was once one of the largest copper-gold mines in the world. However, its operations were marred by allegations of severe environmental damage and human rights violations. The company behind the mine is now seeking to reopen it, but issues remain.

IPX’s Role: A Peaceful Relaunch

Canadian miner Island Passage Exploration (IPX) has taken on a significant stake in Isina Resource Holdings, a company supposedly controlled by local landowners. IPX has been exploring 261 square kilometers in the Crown Prince Range, just nine kilometers southeast of the former Panguna mine.

Environmental and Human Rights Concerns

A report detailing the impacts of the previous owners’ activities is set to be made public shortly, revealing severe damage and threats to communities. The issues surrounding the Panguna mine’s closure have raised concerns about the potential risks associated with IPX’s new operations.

A Fresh Start? Or More of the Same?

Despite the challenges, IPX claims to be fostering a peaceful and safe relaunch of systematic modern copper-gold exploration in Bougainville. The company has already identified gold, silver, copper, molybdenum, and base metals within the exploration site.

Conclusion

As IPX begins phase four of its exploration program, questions remain about the potential impact on local communities and the environment. While the company’s intentions may be genuine, concerns over a troubled history and ongoing environmental and human rights issues cannot be ignored. As the report detailing the Panguna mine’s impacts is released, it remains to be seen whether IPX’s efforts will bring about a positive change or perpetuate more of the same problems.