Impacts of the project
The Simandou mining project is creating serious challenges for Guinea’s communities and environment, adding to an ongoing food crisis that has affected the country since 2016. Guinea, famous for its incredible biodiversity with unique forests, wetlands, and thousands of plant and animal species, is now facing deforestation and water scarcity as a result of large-scale mining activities.
Forest clearing and land use changes have already gone beyond what was promised in the Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, putting both local livelihoods and wildlife at risk. These pressing issues demand urgent attention and action.
40
Threatened plant species
4
Endangered primate species
1
impact attributed to Rio Tinto
28
impact attributed to WCS
Impact on the water
Mining activities at Simandou are already polluting water sources in nearby communities, with rivers, streams, and springs affected by mud, sand, and waste from construction work. This contamination harms plants, animals, and aquatic life, while also making it harder for people to access clean water and farm their land.
