El Salvador lifts ban on metals mining, sparking economic hopes and environmental concerns.

El Salvador's Congress has approved a law ending a seven-year ban on metals mining, despite opposition from environmentalists and the Roman Catholic Church. Proposed by President Nayib Bukele, the legislation allows mining across the country except in nature reserves and sensitive areas, bans toxic mercury in gold mining, and requires joint ventures with the government. Bukele argues it could unlock significant economic potential, with gold reserves valued at $3 trillion, though critics warn of environmental risks.

3 months ago
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