Amichoco, The Green Gold Corporation & ARM
Amichoco is a Colombian NGO committed to the welfare of the Choco region of Colombia and the people who live there. It's an incredibly beautiful place, regarded as being one of the most bio-diverse areas in the world. With current concerns about the future of our planet riding high, this area and its indigenous peoples are a high priority.
|
|
Amichoco is one of 5 partners in The Green Gold Corporation, or 'Corporacion de Oro Verde'. It is a truly innovative project that addresses many needs. Mining in the Choco region has gone on for years, but with terrible consequences: environmental devastation, loss of indigenous land rights, disintegration of communities, reinforcement of the guerrilla conflict, and poverty for miners and their families. |
The Green Gold Corporation is addressing all of these factors. Indigenous communities are encouraged to work together and form co-operatives, giving them a voice and corporate buying power. The land is being restored through a Rainforest Reforestation programme. Families are being encouraged to diversify their income streams to provide a more stable way of earning a living, as seen in the Livelihoods programme.
But, importantly, miners are now able to mine gold, silver and platinum using traditional methods that respect the environment, are safe for miners, and attract a 'Fair Trade' premium.
We're committed to continue partnering with this innovative project. As a result of our partnership, Cred Jewellery has been able to source 'green gold' and pioneer fair trade & ethical jewellery products in the UK market, resulting in a nomination for The Observer’s 'Ethical Retailer of the Year Award' for the second year running.
Cred is also a founder member of the international Association for Responsible Mining, a global organisation that looks to replicate the success of The Green Gold Corporation in other territories.
ARM has already had much success in facilitating co-operatives in Peru and Bolivia, and many more are due to arise across Africa and South America. The common thread is that of Making Trade Fair for miners, their families, and their communities, whilst also insisting on the necessity of making mining fair for the environment too.
For more info visit:
