In 2024, allegations of human rights and environmental abuses in transition mineral projects in Europe and central Asia rose significantly to 270 cases, a threefold increase from previous years. The surge is attributed to growing demand for minerals like copper and lithium, crucial for energy transition. Most allegations were related to health and safety violations, which accounted for 85% of impacts on workers. Environmental safety violations constituted 38% of allegations affecting communities. Notably, no allegations were recorded in certain EU member states, indicating a varied regional landscape of abuse.
In 2024, there has been a threefold increase in allegations of environmental and human rights abuses in transition mineral projects across Europe and central Asia, rising from 92 cases to 270.
The report highlights that demand for minerals like copper and lithium is expected to surge as Europe seeks to transition away from fossil fuels and combat climate change.
Ella Skybenko of BHRRC emphasized the importance of ensuring that neither people nor the environment bear the cost of the energy transition, calling for a wise and balanced approach.
Health and safety violations were the most common form of alleged human rights violations in the mining sector, accounting for 85% of all impacts on workers.
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