Cambodian government reverses decision on Titanium mine plan

Phnom Penh - Plans for starting a titanium mine in a Cambodian forest have been stopped by the Cambodian government’s orders, winning commendation from environmentalists.

In February 2011, the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen granted permission to a Cambodian company, the United Khmer Group, to start working on a titanium mine covering over 50,000 acres of forested area in the Koh Kong province. The news evoked great concern among environmentalists and conservationist groups that feared the mine’s damaging effects on the rich wildlife inhabiting the area. Beside bears, tigers, gibbons, and hundreds of bird species, the area is home to more than 70 endangered and vulnerable species of wild elephants. All of these could suffer a serious risk to their existence due to sudden deforestation carried out for mining purpose. However, the news of Cambodian government reversing its earlier order has cheered up those concerned with the planed mine’s potential damage to wildlife. Boston.com reports that Prime Minister Hun Sen reversed his decision of letting the company start the proposed mine in the forested area. The Prime Minister announced his latest decision at a meeting with government officials on Friday (April 08, 2011). His decision is based on the response he received from pro-environment groups, expressing concern over the mine’s plan. The new decision to not allow a mine destroy the natural treasure of Cambodia is receiving ample praise from pro-environment enthusiasts. The Wildlife Alliance of Washington is said to be ‘elated over the Prime Minister’s announcement. The online environmental conservation and human rights community Care2 sent an email blast to its subscribers to congratulate them on their effort – signing the Care2 petition against the titanium mine’s development for saving wildlife and the environment. The email said that over 90 thousand signatures were made by Care2 members in support of the cause. “This is your success too, so congratulations!” read the email from Care2.