Mongabay · Climate & nature

Myanmar Mines Poison Thai Rivers

Chemicals from Myanmar's mining operations are polluting at least six transboundary rivers in Thailand, affecting farmland and communities.

Over 50 Thai companies are importing minerals from Myanmar's polluting mines. These minerals, including antimony, copper, lead, manganese, tin, and tungsten, are worth millions and are largely resold to China.

Many Thai companies lack knowledge about the origin of these minerals, their legality, or whether the mines contribute to river pollution. The authenticity of the imported minerals is also often unverified.

Thai, Burmese, and Chinese companies are profiting from these mines, which have contaminated rivers. This has resulted in a public health crisis for downstream communities, impacting their access to clean water, food security, and livelihoods.

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