The CIRAN project recently held a significant meeting in Ljubljana, Slovenia, from February 18–20, 2025, bringing together experts, stakeholders, and partners to discuss pressing issues related to mining in protected areas. The event featured insightful sessions, workshops, and a fascinating visit to the UNESCO Global GeoPark Idrija, providing participants with the opportunity to explore the intersection of mining, sustainability, and social contracts.
The event kicked off with a captivating visit to the UNESCO Global GeoPark Idrija, once a thriving mercury mine, which allowed participants to learn about its rich mining history and the challenges of balancing environmental preservation with industrial activity. The park served as a perfect backdrop for the discussions that followed.
On February 19th, the workshop titled “Social Contracts: A Pragmatic Approach to Mining in Protected Areas” brought together around 40 experts from across Europe and beyond.
The workshop focused on the complex relationship between mining activities and protected areas, with participants engaging in dynamic group discussions centered on specific case studies.
This collaborative approach helped to shed light on the evolving role of social contracts in addressing the challenges posed by mining in such sensitive areas.
A key highlight of the day was the avant-premiere of the e-documentary “Not in My Country: Serbia’s Lithium Dilemma,” which explored the controversial issue of lithium mining in Serbia. Following the screening, a thought-provoking roundtable took place, offering further insights into the social and environmental implications of such mining operations.
The final day, February 20th, was dedicated to the CIRAN project meeting itself, where consortium members discussed future steps and strategies for the continued success of the project. The collaboration among the partners was invaluable in setting the tone for the next phases of the initiative.
The CIRAN project meeting in Ljubljana was a resounding success, providing a platform for meaningful conversations about mining, sustainability, and the importance of social contracts in managing protected areas. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared expertise in finding solutions to the challenges faced by the mining industry in sensitive ecological zones. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the participants for their contributions to these important discussions. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and upcoming events!
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