Wilmington-based Chemours continues to deny that it has no interest in a controversial proposed titanium mine next to a beloved swamp in Georgia.
Twin Pines Minerals, LLC has applied for permits for a mine about three miles from the Okefenokee Refuge. The company claims the project would have a minimal impact on the environment and boost the area’s economy. The company has accused opponents of the project of lies and distortions.
Chemours was brought into the conversation because of its expertise financial resources and large market share as a producer of titanium oxide used in paint Earlier, Chemours earlier bought a mining operation in another Georgia county.
“With respect to mining activities of others, particularly Twin Pines, Chemours has no role in the proposed Twin Pines project in Charlton County, Georgia. We have no previous, existing, or future interest in acquiring, and no plans or intent to acquire, the project or the company,” Chemours stated. “We have no intention or plans, now and for the foreseeable future (the next five to ten years), of doing business with Twin Pines, including buying from the project or any titanium the project produces.”
An environmental coalition claimed victory with the release of the statement from Chemours.
“Swamps may not always get the same love that majestic forests receive, but the Okefenokee is special to Georgians. It’s important for fish, migratory birds, and all sorts of plants and wildlife, and it’s essential for clean water. While the Chemours news doesn’t lock the door on mining in the area, it brings us a lot closer to closing it on these destructive plans,” said Ellen Montgomery, Environment America Public Lands campaign director. “The next steps are denying permits and then banning mining altogether in this sensitive area. We’re hoping our leaders look at this corporate announcement, plus pay attention to the broad public support for protections, and realize that this would be the wrong mine in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
