Why mining?

People's homes and lands have been bulldozed to make way for a new mine [Annie Bungeroth]

Mining can all too often be a cause of conflict, environmental destruction and toxic pollution. CAFOD's Unearth Justice campaign highlights these hidden harms

When new mines have been developed, communities have been threatened and forced from their lands and homes.

Rivers and streams close to mines have been polluted with cyanide. Hillsides and fields have been devastated, leaving people struggling to make a living.

The damage lasts long after mines have closed.

The initial focus of the campaign has been on gold. Three-quarters of all gold is produced in developing countries.

As consumers, there is no way of tracing how our gold reaches the shops or of knowing what damage it has caused.

CAFOD is calling on governments and multinational businesses to make changes in mining practices which will end these injustices and to give poor communities much greater say in: whether gold is mined, how it is mined, and who benefits?

CAFOD also works with local partner organisations who witness the impact of mining on poor communities and support people in those communities to stand up for their rights.

take action for Unearth Justice

Stop dangerous mines - email your pension fund

If 6,000 people email their pension fund, we could have £540m of financial power to pressure mining companies with - so, as well as taking action yourself, please send the action to up to six friends

Pure Gold? exhibition website

Showcasing the best of our photos from the exhibition revealing the impact of gold mining on communities around the world - and includes ways for you to get involved in the campaign