Experts and advocates warn of nickel mining's risk to precious marine region of Indonesia

A new report says the expansion of nickel mining in Indonesia is a threat to one of Earth's most biodiverse marine regions. The report from the environmental group Auriga Nusantara warns of potential pollution in Raja Ampat, a world-class diving destination in the massive archipelago. By using satellite analysis and visiting several islands in the regency, the report found the rate of expansion over the past five years has tripled compared to the previous five. Indonesia has the world’s largest known nickel reserves and rich deposits of cobalt, bauxite and other materials. It has seen a mining boom on demand for stainless steel, electric vehicle batteries and more that are needed for the global energy transition.