WALHI responds

I refer to the letter from PT Newmont published in The Jakarta Post on May 4, 2001, titled Newmont and pollution. Reading the letter, we do not appreciate a single point of the issues raised, because it is like comparing oranges to apples.

While accusing the Indonesian Environmental Forum (WALHI) of being "unscientific", Newmont forgets that it is defending a disposal system for its mine waste -- tailings -- that is scientifically unproven from the safety point of view.

Newmont also forgets that it has for years applied double standards in its operations, as the submarine tailings disposal method (STD) -- its over-praised method of dumping tailings into the ocean -- is forbidden in its country of origin, the United States.

Furthermore, regarding Newmont's concern over illegal miners, we suggest they mind their own business, instead of interfering with others'.

LONGGENA GINTING

Head of Campaign

Division, WALHI

Jakarta