State of the World from NPR The Downstream Effects of China's Rare Earth Mining
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Jul 18, 2025 China's dominance in rare earth minerals has significant environmental repercussions. Production in Myanmar is leading to severe water contamination issues in Thailand. The podcast delves into how these practices are harming local ecosystems and communities. With ongoing civil unrest complicating regulatory efforts, the need for accountability in mining practices becomes ever more urgent. Listen to hear about the intricate connections between international demand and local environmental crises.
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Local Warn of River Pollution
- Residents near Tatton first noticed river water turning murky and causing skin irritation when mining started across the Myanmar border two years ago.
- In February, the water didn't clear as expected and many people developed rashes, forcing them to avoid the river.
Arsenic Pollution Threatens Mekong
- Thai water tests found arsenic levels in rivers near the border as high as four times the WHO limit, contaminating water sources and endangering health.
- The affected rivers flow into the Mekong, raising concerns for downstream populations and wildlife.
Mining Pollutes Border Ecosystem
- Illegal and unregulated mining near the Thai-Myanmar border uses rivers for waste disposal, contaminating wells and posing major environmental health risks.
- Contaminated water sources harm local residents, livestock, and tourism industries, showing widespread impact.