http://somo.nl daily 1 2008-05-02T16:39:28Z http://somo.nl/news-en/local-voices-remain-unheard-by-mining-and-electronic-companies On the eve of international Human Rights Day (10 December), makeITfair’s new report Unheard Voices reveals how local communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are barely consulted by copper and cobalt mining companies that are taking their land or digging next to their houses. These minerals are being mined in part to satisfy the global demand for the latest high tech mobile phones and computers produced by the electronics industry. No publisher noor 2012-03-28T10:34:09Z News Item http://somo.nl/news-en/uranium-mines-threaten-african-people-and-nature Uranium exploitation leads to large-scale radiological and toxic contamination around many mining sites in Africa. Multinational mining companies remain largely unregulated and unaccountable, public participation in decision making regarding uranium mining is minimal, and long-term effects are insufficiently addressed. No publisher marije 2012-01-30T12:31:21Z News Item http://somo.nl/news-en/long-but-hopeful-path-towards-legislation-on-conflict-minerals On 26 May, SOMO organised a Roundtable in the European Parliament, together with Judith Sargentini (Member of European Parliament, GroenLinks). This well attended meeting focused on conflict minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This Roundtable focused on two objectives: urging the European commission to develop legislation in the matter, and offering a platform for Congolese NGOs. The meeting was a success, but the road to actual legislation is still a long one. But doing nothing is not an option, according to Judith Sargentini. No publisher noor 2011-07-11T15:19:24Z News Item http://somo.nl/news-en/upcoming-event-roundtable-at-european-parliament-on-drc-conflict-minerals On May 26th, SOMO, on behalf of the makeITfair campaign, and Judith Sargentini, Member of European Parliament for the Greens/European Free Alliance, are organising a roundtable on the issue of conflict minerals from the DRC. The aim of this roundtable is to share input with regard to possible new EU regulations concerning the issue of conflict minerals from the DRC. No publisher Edith 2011-07-19T10:05:52Z News Item http://somo.nl/news-en/a-troubling-reality-behind-the-electric-car The supply chain of the electric car battery is faced with serious sustainability challenges. This is the conclusion of the SOMO report “The electric car battery; sustainability in the supply chain”, published today. The expected profits from lithium, one of the basic materials for the electric car battery, already create social tensions in Bolivia, while workers rights are violated at battery manufacturing plants in China. These issues need to be taken into account when companies and politicians discuss the costs and benefits of the electric car. No publisher Edith 2011-03-22T13:30:49Z News Item