Cyprus-Forum.com

[potassium]

does anyone know a good LOGICAL reason why these liberals are protesting?
bit late, but anyways.

[GreekIslandGirl]

The commentary is quite clear on why they are protesting. The mining will ruin the environment. Gold extraction is a messy business and they would rather find more sustainable means of creating jobs and wealth.

Greece is a beautiful place.

[Paphitis]

No they are not hippies and they are not insane!

The protesters are making very valid points and are concerned for the environment. This mining activity might destroy a great deal of other things and so one might ask if it is worth it...

[kurupetos]

Here's some info: http://www.france24.com/en/20130512-nine-injured-greece-after-gold-mine-project-protest

Chalkidiki peninsula is the most tourist-active area of the Greek mainland. One has to consider the possible negative effects of mining, because the place is already a "gold mine".

But if I remember right, there were several studies on the issue, which suggested that the negative effects on the environment could be minimal.

[Cap]

Right, so much needed revenue from natural resources should stay in the ground.

Other countries are insane for mining gold.

[GreekIslandGirl]

Greece mined for thousands of years so they know what they're talking about.

It's not all about selling the minerals to the first foreign company that pressurizes your government during a time of externally-imposed austerity. Things have to last for the next generation.

I wish Cyprus had the power to avoid being stripped of minerals during colonial times. What a mess they left ...

[Paphitis]

It all depends on what environmental controls the firm will put in place. They should, under EU rules, submit an environmental impact study. With that they must implement procedures and policies that avoid excessive impact against the environment and also have a policy for environmental repair.

Most heavy mining companies have the most stringent environmental controls and spend Billions to rejuvenate the area after mining is finished.

Mining practices are highly evolved these days, but that does not mean that this firm is going to be as responsible as other mega giant mining companies in other countries!

[Oceanside50]

does anyone know a good LOGICAL reason why these liberals are protesting?
bit late, but anyways.

actually it does come across as being a bit odd...but unique. "unemployment is higher in Thessaloniki then anywhere else" the commentator said but still the Greeks protest a 6 billion euro infusion into the local economy, im proud of them actually..All ancient peoples that are around today have an awareness of the environment and health...From the Incas/Aztecs in south America to the native American Indians to the Japanese, to certain Chinese and now the Greeks, I wonder if there is a connection or just coincidence?

[SKI-preo]

Because Greeks are assholes. Cyprus banks should seize the gold mines as compensation for the losses from the bank hair cut.

[Cap]

If you guys think the Greeks are environmentally conscious, then you obviously don't know them too well.