Case Example
Case Example 2
Environmental Justice Case Study: The Jabiluka Mine and Aboriginal Land Rights in Australia�s Northern Territory
Table of Contents
• Problem • Background • KeyActors • Demographics • Strategies • Solutions • Recommendations • References
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The Problem
Controversy has surrounded uranium mining over the past few decades, but has become increasingly volatile in the wake of nuclear accidents like Chernobyl. Likewise, the byproduct tailings of uranium mining, which often contain 85% of the radioactivity of the original element, are being targeted as toxic environmental pollutants (Krockenberger, 1998). Communities near uranium production or tailings dumping facilities are becoming aware of the inevitable health dangers that result from uranium mining. The siting of uranium mines in people of color and low-income communities is tragically a global phenomenon.
The siting of a uranium mine within the boundaries of Kakadu National Park in Australia�s Northern Territory has raised numerous environmental and health questions. Potential radioactive leaks into surrounding wetlands not only severely endangers the fragile ecosystem of the Alligator River system, the river system so vital to Kakadu National Park, but also threatens the health of nearby Aboriginal communities who depend on the river for drinking water and food.
Jabiluka Site
[pic]
(Image courtesy of www.uiuc.com.au)
In response to accusations, mining companies often highlight the economic benefits that uranium-mining facilities would create for the host community. The creation of jobs, a stimulated economy and financial security are touted as reasons host communities should embrace such opportunity. In the case of the Jabiluka mine site, which is currently being constructed on historically native lands, mining royalties have been offered in excess of $200 million dollars to the local Aboriginal community as a mitigation tactic
Environmental Justice Case Study: The Jabiluka Mine and Aboriginal Land Rights in Australia�s Northern Territory
Table of Contents
• Problem • Background • KeyActors • Demographics • Strategies • Solutions • Recommendations • References
[pic]
The Problem
Controversy has surrounded uranium mining over the past few decades, but has become increasingly volatile in the wake of nuclear accidents like Chernobyl. Likewise, the byproduct tailings of uranium mining, which often contain 85% of the radioactivity of the original element, are being targeted as toxic environmental pollutants (Krockenberger, 1998). Communities near uranium production or tailings dumping facilities are becoming aware of the inevitable health dangers that result from uranium mining. The siting of uranium mines in people of color and low-income communities is tragically a global phenomenon.
The siting of a uranium mine within the boundaries of Kakadu National Park in Australia�s Northern Territory has raised numerous environmental and health questions. Potential radioactive leaks into surrounding wetlands not only severely endangers the fragile ecosystem of the Alligator River system, the river system so vital to Kakadu National Park, but also threatens the health of nearby Aboriginal communities who depend on the river for drinking water and food.
Jabiluka Site
[pic]
(Image courtesy of www.uiuc.com.au)
In response to accusations, mining companies often highlight the economic benefits that uranium-mining facilities would create for the host community. The creation of jobs, a stimulated economy and financial security are touted as reasons host communities should embrace such opportunity. In the case of the Jabiluka mine site, which is currently being constructed on historically native lands, mining royalties have been offered in excess of $200 million dollars to the local Aboriginal community as a mitigation tactic
References: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission, 1998: http://www.abs.gov.au/ Australian Bureau of Statistics Statsite. Australian Conservation Foundation, "WORLD SAYS NO TO JABILUKA MINE - ACF CALLS FOR CONSTRUCTION TO STOP", December 1, 1998, http://www.peg.apc.org/~acfenv/mr011298.htm. Inwood, G. 1998. Response to Letter by Charles Roberts to Australia Federal Politicians, http://www.octa4.net.au/catacomb/gi.html.