PNG: World Bank recommends the closure of giant PNG mine

The World Bank has confirmed it's recommended the closure of the Ok Tedi copper mine in Papua New Guinea due to environmental concerns.

The mine's future has been in doubt, since studies last year showed pollution and environmental damage was far greater than predicted.

The bank was then asked by the P-N-G Government to review a report prepared by Ok Tedi Mining. 

It now says, even if the mine is not closed immediately, a shut-down plan should be drawn up, and the surrounding community be consulted as soon as possible.

The Australia resources company, BHP, which owns 52-percent of Ok Tedi, has said it's not happy with continuing to operate the mine.

Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation 7 March 2000