Rare Earth Mines in Myanmar Pose Risk to Thai Rivers
New satellite data has identified 513 rare earth mining sites across six key tributaries of the Mekong, Salween, and Irrawaddy rivers in Myanmar over the past decade.
The data, published by the Stimson Center on September 22, reveals a significant increase in mining operations, with 40 new sites opening this year alone.
The proliferation of unregulated mining operations in Myanmar could have dire outcomes for northern Thailand's Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces.
- 513 mining sites identified across six key tributaries
- 40 new sites opened this year alone
- Risk of transboundary river pollution significantly higher than once thought
Author's summary: Myanmar's rare earth mines pose a significant risk to Thai rivers and communities.