Uranium Mining

Paper Summary:

This paper describes the controversy surrounding the Jabiluka mine in Australia, which dates back to the early 1970s when Pancontinental Mining Limited discovered high-grade uranium deposits in Jabiluka. The paper describes efforts by environmental organizations, student groups and traditional landowners to block the uranium mining project initiated by Energy Resources Australia and the results of those efforts.

From the Paper:

"While the Labor Party was in power in the 1980's, the construction of new mines was safely relegated to the back burner. However the mid 1990s marked the rebirth of uranium mining in Australia. The ERA presented its EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) to the pro-uranium mining Howard Government in 1996. In October 1997, Senator Hill approved the EIS, despite obvious flaws in the process & study. ERA sought to use the existing Ranger Mine facilities to mill Jabiluka ore. Construction commenced at the Jabiluka Site on 15th June 1998, amidst widespread opposition from environmentalists & traditional Aboriginal (Mirrar) landowners. A Jabiluka Blockade comprising of students, environmental groups, and traditional landowners was organized. At times, physical efforts by Blockade participants prevented trucks & equipments from entering the Jabiluka site."

More papers on Uranium Mining:

• Term Paper # 108752 : "Environmental Implications of Depleted Uranium"
• Research Paper # 150007 : "The Global Economic Downturn on the Australian Mining Industry"
• Research Paper # 101097 : "Nuclear Power in Australia"

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