Village leaders reach into their past to revive a canoe-launching ceremony while embracing a modern litigation strategy to stop a nickel mine that has forced longtime owners from their land.

Papua New Guinea

Village leaders reach into their past to revive a canoe-launching ceremony while embracing a modern litigation strategy to stop a nickel mine that has forced longtime owners from their land. They fear that runoff from the ongoing construction of the massive Chinese government-owned mine will poison their water, fish and gardens, and destroy their environment. Sparking further outcry, toxic mine waste is being dumped into the sea, threatening the fisheries critical to local residents.

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In the face of great challenges, these organizations are working hard to make a difference.

Papua New Guinea

Bismarck Ramu Group works with local communities throughout Papua New Guinea. It aims to ensure indigenous people are well informed and empowered to take control over their land and resources and be the masters of their own destiny.