Mining in the paramos

This is a summary of the environmental issues surrounding the proposed Angostura gold mine. This mine would be operated by the Canadian company Greystar, in an area called the paramo of Santurban. Colombia's paramos are high-altitude wetlands that have great value in terms of biodiversity and provision of clean drinking water for most of our population. Mining is legally forbidden in these areas, but concessions have nevertheless been granted to international mining companies. It remains to be seen whether President Santos will allow the despoiling of the Santurban and other paramos, or will stand up for preserving our country's natural heritage.