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The Apollo Project by Vale, Worth US$ 2 Billion, May Pose a Threat to Biodiversity and Destroy a Vital Aquifer in Minas Gerais. Experts Warn of Irreversible Environmental Impacts. Vale Defends the Sustainability of the Project, but Environmentalists Are Not Convinced.
Did you know that a billion-dollar project by Vale could destroy one of Brazil’s largest aquifers? Environmentalists warn of an imminent disaster. The ambitious Apollo Project by Vale, with investments of US$ 2 billion, promises to transform mining in Brazil, but the cost may be too high.
Experts fear that the expansion of mining in the Gandarela mountain range, one of the few untouched areas in Minas Gerais, could destroy an essential aquifer that supplies water to more than two million people in Belo Horizonte and the metropolitan area. According to environmentalists and researchers, the environmental impact could be catastrophic.
The Controversy Surrounding the Project
Vale announced the resumption of the Apollo Project, which was halted for years due to dam tragedies, with the promise of a “more sustainable” model. The mining company claims that the new project will not use dams and will reduce the use of fresh water by 95%, but environmentalists remain unconvinced.
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According to Paulo Rodrigues from the Nuclear Technology Development Center (CDTN), in an interview with the portal Isto é Dinheiro, the waste piles would replace the dams, but could be even more dangerous, spreading waste during heavy rains.
Paulo Rodrigues also highlights concerns about the Cauê aquifer, vital for the Rio das Velhas basin. This aquifer, unique for its iron formation and canga, allows the entry of uncontaminated water. Mining, however, could destroy the aquifer’s water collection system, causing irreversible damage.
Vale argues that it will monitor water courses and make replacements as needed, but the use of the aquifer’s own water for replacement raises doubts about the effectiveness of this measure. According to the specialist, “when I destroy the aquifer and its water collection mechanism, it is irreversible.”
The Importance of the Gandarela National Park
Created in 2014, the park aims to protect part of the mountain range and the aquifer, but only 50% of the area is protected. Vale plans to donate part of its land to ICMBio as environmental compensation, but this does not reassure environmentalists. Biologist João Madeira criticizes the creation of the park without including the entire mountain range, leaving the area vulnerable to mining.
Economic and Social Impacts of the Project
The Apollo Project promises to generate 2,600 temporary jobs during construction and 740 direct jobs after operations begin. The projected payroll is R$ 138 million, with R$ 151 million in taxes. However, the destruction of the aquifer could compromise the water supply for millions, jeopardizing public health and the sustainability of the region.
The Uncertain Future of Mining in the Gandarela Mountain Range
The fate of the Apollo Project still depends on environmental licensing and evaluation by authorities. In the meantime, Vale is promoting public hearings to defend its venture. But the question remains: Does economic development justify the risk of destroying such a crucial natural resource?
And what about you, do you believe that Vale’s project will bring more benefits or harm to the region? Comment below and join the debate!
Bom dia á todos!
Penso que a sociedade deve mobilizar urgentemente de todas as formas para defender o AQUíFERO na Serra da Gandarela e posicionar-se CONTRA PROJETO APOLO !!!
Isac Caires Bragança.