Maronia-Şapçı municipality unanimously rejects proposed Konos mining project
The Municipality of Maronia-Şapçı has unanimously opposed a decision by Greece’s Ministry of Environment and Energy to lease exploration and exploitation rights for a mining site in the Konos area near Sapes, calling for the decision to be withdrawn and for local communities to have a say in decisions affecting their environment.
According to a statement issued by the municipality, the municipal council adopted a resolution stressing that decisions with potentially far-reaching consequences for the region must not be made without consulting local residents.
The municipality highlighted citizens’ rights to access information and participate in decision-making on matters affecting the environment, public health and their living conditions.
CALL FOR MINISTRY DECISION TO BE WITHDRAWN
In its resolution, the municipal council called for the ministry’s decision to be immediately revoked and for steps that could cause irreversible damage to the area to be prevented.
It also called for a comprehensive assessment of the potential environmental impacts around Sapes and Goures, stressing the need to protect water resources, soil quality, public health and local economic activities.
The municipality further urged authorities to ensure that local governments and residents are properly informed and given meaningful opportunities to participate in future decisions concerning the area.
LOCAL COMMUNITIES URGED TO HAVE A VOICE
During the meeting, Stratiadis, representing the Interregional Committee opposing gold mining and metallurgy in the Rhodope (Rodopi) and Meriç (Evros) regions, also voiced concerns over the issue and stressed the importance of ensuring that local residents’ views are heard.
Maronia-Sapes Mayor Apostolos Ioannou was also reported to be closely monitoring the issue and leading efforts to protect the region.
The municipality said the unanimous resolution underscored the importance of a development approach that respects people, the environment and the will of local communities.
