Peru reinstates the 5,600 km² protected area of the Nasca Lines after criticism over reduced boundaries and rising informal gold mining activity in the region
China has discovered the world’s largest gold deposit—over 1,000 tons found 2,000 meters underground in Hunan province. Valued at $83 billion, the Wangu find cements China’s dominance in the global gold market while sparking debate on environmental and social consequences.
Illegal gold mining in the Amazon surged with record prices, causing over 111,000 hectares of deforestation in 2024—much of it in protected areas.
China breaks its tradition of neutrality to pressure Rwanda amid Congo’s mineral conflict. A rare diplomatic move driven by Beijing’s growing concerns over its critical mining assets in the DRC.