Theonila Roka Matbob from Papua New Guinea has been awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize for her efforts to address the environmental and social damage caused by the Panguna copper and gold mine. Growing up near the mine, she witnessed the devastation it left on the landscape and the community, including a civil war that claimed many lives, including her father’s. The mine, operated by Rio Tinto’s subsidiary Bougainville Copper Ltd., was abandoned decades ago but left lasting environmental scars. Roka Matbob’s activism focuses on repairing these damages and advocating for her community’s rights. Her recognition highlights the importance of grassroots efforts in tackling environmental issues and the impact of industrial activities on local communities.
QUESTION: How might the actions of individuals like Theonila Roka Matbob inspire young people to engage in environmental activism in their own communities?
A mine despoiled the beauty of the rainforest. This Goldman Prize winner took action
