El Salvador Congress lifts seven-year ban on metal mining

El Salvador's Congress has approved a law to lift a seven-year ban on metal mining. The law allows mining in most areas, excluding nature reserves and sensitive watersheds, and bans toxic mercury use in gold mining. The law requires private companies to partner with the government for mining operations. Environmentalists and the Catholic Church oppose the move, citing potential harm to ecosystems. President Nayib Bukele, who proposed the law, argues that mining could significantly benefit the country. A recent poll indicates that many Salvadorans oppose mining, reflecting concerns about environmental impacts.