The Virginia Interfaith Center and Interfaith Power & Light has launched a state-wide effort to mobilize the faith community to the ban on uranium mining and milling in Virginia.
We are working to keep the ban to protect our water, health, and local economies. Opening our Commonwealth's fields, valleys and water supplies to this kind of experimental mining would benefit a few individuals, while risking the health, safety, and prosperity of millions of Virginians.
Click below to learn more about:
Risks to Water
Risks to Health
Risks to Local Economies
What's the risk?
Currently, there is a statewide moratorium on the mining of uranium, the milling of yellowcake, and the disposal of radioactive waste in Virginia. This ban has been in effect for nearly 30 years and the proposed project would allow uranium mining and milling to take place in Pittsylvania County. Mining this site alone could generate up to 28 million tons of mill tailings, waste, and polluted water.
It is expected that there will be legislation during the 2012 General Assembly to lift the moratorium. The National Academy of Science's study was recently released, validating concerns and questions about uranium mining in Virginia.
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light is working with businesses, non-profits, local governments, community members, and faith leaders to maintain this ban on uranium mining in Virginia to protect our water, health, and economy.
Click here to find out more about why uranium mining poses such a threat to the Roanoke River, which provides water to more than 1 million people for drinking, farming, fishing, and boating.
What can you do?
Learn more about our "Keep the Ban" coalition here. Contact us if you are interested in joining or organizing a community meeting in your area!
In the media:
Uranium Mining in Virginia Takes a Step
Clearing up some misconceptions of uranium mining study
Bi-State Commission on the Roanoke River Votes to Keep Virginia's Uranium Mining Moratorium in Place Until 2013
The New York Times - Va. Becomes Ground Zero for Uranium Mining Efforts
Group urges delay for Va. uranium mine
Virginia Against Uranium Mining blog