Mining Firm Set to Destroy Artifacts: The Age

The economic slowdowns imposed to contain Covid-19 contribute to a glut in energy markets. “China Shenhua Energy, the world's largest thermal coalminer, is planning to construct an open-cut mine next to the Liverpool plains near Gunnedah in the ‘food bowl’ of the state,” reports Charlotte Grieve for the Age. The Gomeroi people maintain the project will ruin Aboriginal sites and artifacts including “grinding grooves showing markings of ancient warriors sharpening spears for battle, burial sites and sacred trees” and attempt to block the project in court. Critics target investors including BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager. Since January, BlackRock has emphasized sustainability in constructing client portfolios and prioritizing environmental, social and corporate governance concerns. Blasting at another site controlled by Rio Tinto instigated a legislative inquiry into Australia’s protections for Aboriginal sites. China Shenhua Energy, relying on an archaeological report said it would use fencing or relcation to protect about half of the artifacts. – YaleGlobal