Social

Home page

Social

Construction of plant in Arazdeyend could create a serious public health crisis in Azerbaijan and Armenia - Kenyan eco-activist

14 July 2023 18:45 (UTC +04:00)

"The construction of a metallurgical plant in Arazdeyan could create a serious public health crisis in Azerbaijan and Armenia," Kenyan eco-activist Peter Ngola said in his statement to APA.

He pointed out that civil society organizations are against the construction of the plant, because the consequences of such enterprises are not limited only to the region where they operate, but are a threat to the entire planet: "The potential impact of toxic chemical waste from a metallurgical plant on the local ecosystem is enormous. This environmental impact will definitely affect flora and fauna, soil, air, and water structures in addition to human health. There is also a scary possibility that these wastes will be discharged into the Araz River. In addition to destroying the creatures living in this river, it creates legitimate concern for large farms that use it for irrigation. Damage to the drinking water supply can lead to the spread of infectious diseases in border villages. Therefore, the construction of this plant could potentially create a serious public health crisis for both Azerbaijan and Armenia."

Peter Ngola noted that the damages done by the metallurgy plant will be greater than its financial gains: Financial gains should not be more important than human health. All investments put in this project means potentially endangering human lives. Armenia is one of the sides who signed the Aarhus Convention, so they should create an opening for the plant’s activity information to the communities concerned and should let them participate in making a decision as part of their responsibility. We demand of Armenia create an environment conducive to the active participation of civil society organizations and local communities in the dialogue and decision-making processes related to the construction of this large steel plant. The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights provide an important framework for promoting responsible behavior in business, including the mining industry. These principles emphasize the need for companies to preserve human rights, prevent the negative influence on the environment, and transparent and inclusive connections with affected organizations. We urge all the interested parties who participate in building a metallurgy plant in Arazdayan to adapt their activity with these principles and integrate them into their operating experiences.”