Natural resources

THE INSATIBLE HUNGER FOR RAW MATERIALS EXPLOIT THE PLANET

From the oil in your gas tank to the gold and copper in your smartphone, demand for raw materials continues to grow. The green energy transition, which requires many metals, is also increasing the global pressure on mining more than ever.  

This mining is devastating for people and nature. The Amazon rainforest is disappearing rapidly due to large-scale deforestation. Mining companies ruthlessly violate the rights of workers and indigenous communities, and drive them from their own land. Toxic waste from the pollution of rivers, agricultural land and drinking water threatens thousands of people and destroys ecosystems. And in countries like DR Congo and Peru, where the soil is full of raw materials, people and nature pay the price.

Fortunately, things can be done differently. By using raw materials in a sustainable and fair way. And by companies and countries that no longer get away with violating human and natural rights. 11.11.11 stands up for a just energy transition, without exploitation and with respect for people and nature. 

• A binding international law for companies (including financial institutions) and governments to guarantee environmental and human rights.
• Involvement of local communities – from the local mining site to international trade agreements – through collaboration with local partners.
• Protecting the Amazon and other biodiverse natural areas by banning mining there.
• Fair trade and investment agreements with resource-rich countries.
• Alternative models such as agroecology, which provide livelihoods for local and indigenous communities without damaging the environment.
• A European raw materials law to use raw materials more sustainably and fairly.  
• An ambitious climate policy with more investments in energy efficiency, affordable public transport and the circular economy.