WWF-Guianas, Amerindian group concerned over mining damage in Marudi mountain range

Laura George

The World Wildlife Fund-Guianas and the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) have expressed concern over the environmental impact that gold mining has had on the Marudi mountain range in Region Nine and are calling for more responsible mining practices to be implemented.

The Marudi Mountains are located in the South Rupununi in Region Nine, and are just one of a few areas in the Rupununi where gold mining activities occur.

A recent visit to Marudi by Stabroek News revealed that gold mining activities in the area have caused damage to the environment with several creeks and their ecosystems totally destroyed. The Mazoa Mountain, located within the Marudi mountain range, has also seen significant changes with its peak completely flattened after a 2016 gold rush. The Locust Creek was the latest to have been completely destroyed by mining activities in the area.