Tactics Used by Mining Companies
When facing Opposition from the Community
Excerpts and summaries from: http://www.wrpc.net/corporate.html
Mining companies learn from the success of grassroots groups
who oppose them and adjust their strategy accordingly.
CORPORATE STRATEGIES FOR OVERCOMING LOCAL RESISTANCE TO
NEW MINING PROJECTS By Al Gedicks, Sociology University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
1. Thwart Local Democratic Control
“Before mining companies can receive permits to mine in Wisconsin, they must have the approval of local units of government --a major obstacle for [mining companies].”
Mining companies seek to keep the people out of the process by bringing local leaders and company officials together to negotiate a ‘local agreement‘, often in closed session meetings.
2. Legal Challenges to Local Zoning Authority - lawsuits against small towns
“The power of large, multinational mining corporations to threaten lawsuits against small rural townships who dare to withhold permission for exploration and mining can be very intimidating.”
This threat has been used effectively by corporate mining interests in Wisconsin. Small towns and cities do not have the resources for lawsuits against powerful corporations.
[ Our Concern: Will Canadian Sand and Proppants threaten lawsuits against Chippewa Falls ? ]
3. Mass Media Campaigns
Public impressions of Mining are lower than for any other industry. Mining corporations use media campaigns to:
“Greenwash” their image
Accuse their opponents of spreading misinformation
Accuse those fighting to keep the environment safe and clean of being ‘Anti- jobs’
Offer enticements to a community - “buy us off”
Economic benefits for giving up health and environmental concerns
Tell citizens DNR approval mean there will be “no harm to the environment or health”
( Please read more about EPA failings here )