Rare Earth Mining Expansion in Laos Threatens Mekong River
New data reveals a surge in rare earth mines across river basins in Laos, posing a potential transboundary water pollution threat to Vietnam and the entire Mekong River system.
Research by the U.S.-based think tank, the Stimson Center, has identified 27 rare earth mines that have opened in Laos since 2022, with 23 of these mines located in protected areas.
The expansion of the industry is attributed to Chinese demand for rare earth minerals, despite rare earth mineral extraction being currently illegal in Laos.
Chinese demand for rare earth minerals has led to the industry’s expansion into Laos.
- 27 rare earth mines have opened across river basins in Laos since 2022
- 23 mines are located in protected areas
- 7 new mines were identified via satellite imagery analysis in 2023
Author's summary: Laos' rare earth mining expansion threatens Mekong River.
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