At a recent scientific symposium titled “The Jadar Project – What We Know from 2021 and Beyond,” held in Kragujevac on April 30th, lawyer Sreten Đorđević issued a stark warning about the potential repercussions of the Jadar Project on local communities. He cautioned that if the project materializes, it could set off a chain reaction of boron and lithium mining activities, posing grave risks to the environment and nearby populations.
Đorđević pointed out the alarming proximity of proposed mining sites to critical infrastructure in areas like Majdanpek, underscoring the inherent dangers associated with such endeavors. The Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU), which had previously voiced concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding the Jadar Project, reiterated apprehensions about its environmental impact. Academics stressed the imperative of safeguarding Serbia’s interests by combatting pollution, ensuring sustainable resource management, and preserving the environment for future generations.
SANU, in collaboration with environmental organizations like the Serbian Environmental Organizations’ Union (SEOS) and local groups such as “Neko brine za Levač” from Rekovac and “Prvi prvi na skali” from Kragujevac, convened the conference in Kragujevac. The objective was to disseminate updated information on the project and strategize on raising public awareness and opposition.
Dr. Dragana Đorđević, a scientific advisor at the Institute of Chemistry, Technology, and Metallurgy at the University of Belgrade, shed light on ongoing efforts by Rio Tinto to acquire additional land despite resistance from local communities. She voiced concerns about environmental contamination stemming from Rio Tinto’s exploration activities, challenging the company’s assertions of adherence to environmental standards. Đorđević also highlighted the plight of workers exploited in similar projects globally, citing instances of corruption and labor exploitation.
Moreover, apprehensions were raised regarding the long-term environmental ramifications of mining operations, particularly pertaining to the persistent pollution caused by mining residues. Đorđević emphasized the urgency of prioritizing environmental sustainability and ethical practices in resource extraction, cautioning against the irreversible harm that mining activities could inflict on ecosystems and communities.
Symposium participants expressed skepticism regarding the government’s handling of the project and its potential consequences, advocating for greater transparency and accountability in decision-making processes. They underscored the importance of community mobilization and advocacy efforts in challenging the project and safeguarding the interests of affected communities and the environment.
