Coal

Coal mining is bringing devastation to landscapes and livelihoods in Kalimantan, where a coal-rush is in full swing. Indonesia is now the world's largest exporter of thermal coal - supplying power stations and generating electricity in India, China, Europe and many other countries around the world.

DTE is campaigning against UK involvement in Indonesia's coal rush. We need to reduce demand for coal in order to protect livelihoods in Kalimantan as well as reduce UK greenhouse gas emissions.

Bumi Resources' giant Kaltim Prima coal mine in East Kalimantan. (Photo:JATAM)

How the UK government’s push for trade and investment risks making things worse for  hard-pressed communities

DTE 98, March 2014

Snapshots from a year of campaigns

DTE 98, March 2014

Focusing public attention on the devastating impacts on communities, environment and climate of coal mining and agrofuels featured prominently in DTE’s work over the last year.

Down to Earth No 57  May 2003


The world's largest mining company, Rio Tinto, has faced severe criticism on human rights, the environment, health & safety and pay & conditions. The company's dismal record in Indonesia has been spotlighted in a new report by WALHI, published to coincide with the company's annual general meetings.

Rio Tinto's annual general meetings in London and Perth sparked co-ordinated protest actions in Indonesia, Australia and Britain.

Down to Earth No. 47, November 2000


The past months have seen unprecedented direct action by local people and mine workers protesting against injustice at Rio Tinto's PT KEM and Kaltim Prima mines.

In April and May this year, Rio Tinto's Kelian gold mine was forced to shut down after negotiations with local community representatives were broken off. Hundreds of Dayak villagers blockaded access to the mine, preventing supplies of lime (used to treat acid waste) and diesel fuel oil getting through to the mine site on the Kelian river.