The proposed coal mining in Hwange Park, Zimbabwe, threatens endangered black rhinos, according to ZimParks. The authority urged cancellation of the mining project, citing risks to species survival and ecological integrity. The initiative, led by Sunny Yi Feng, could disrupt wildlife habitats and water sources, further jeopardizing the already declining black rhino population.
A proposed coal mining initiative in Hwange Park, Zimbabwe, poses a significant risk to the endangered black rhino population, according to the Zimbabwe National Parks Management Authority (ZimParks). This concern arises particularly for the Sinamatella Black Rhino Intensive Protection Zone, which is critical for the survival of the species. ZimParks formally urged the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to cancel the mining project and reject similar applications in the future.
ZimParks highlighted that the proposed coal mining development could hinder their goal of restoring at least 30% of degraded land and ecosystems by 2030. The authority emphasized that such actions may increase the likelihood of black rhinos facing extinction and would severely affect the potential for population recovery. The protection of this area is critical, as it has been recognized in international conventions focused on endangered species.
The application from the Chinese firm Sunny Yi Feng targets an area of over 16,000 hectares, situated less than eight kilometers from the black rhinos’ protected zone. ZimParks expressed grave concerns, stating, “The introduction of mining activities in this vital area would undermine ecological conditions essential for wildlife survival and reproduction.”
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, black rhinos are classified as “endangered,” with a global population of just over 6,400 as of September 2023, marking a decrease due to poaching. Hwange National Park is not only vital for black rhinos but also supports a large population of elephants, with 65,000 present in the park. Mining activities could disturb groundwater flow, threatening crucial water sources for wildlife.
Previously, in 2020, the Zimbabwean government had declared a ban on mining in nature reserves following issues with another Chinese company, indicating the government’s awareness of the potential environmental impacts associated with such projects.
In conclusion, the proposed coal mining project in Hwange Park poses a serious threat to the endangered black rhino population and the ecological integrity of the region. ZimParks has called for the cancellation of the project to protect vital habitats necessary for wildlife survival. The ongoing decline in black rhino numbers, coupled with ecological risks, underscores the importance of safeguarding this critical area from industrial developments.
Original Source: punchng.com
