DRC: Mining Company Suspected of Polluting River in Lubumbashi
Dead fish were found on Monday 14 September in the Lubumbashi River. Local residents suspect pollution from mining activities and blame the Société de traitement du terril de Lubumbashi (STL), a germanium producer. The company denies any discharge and says it complies with environmental standards; no independent analysis has been published.
Why it matters: This bears on the critical minerals theme, showing how environmental disputes can affect the reputational standing of strategic mineral producers in the DRC.