Indigenous Communities Protest Ammonia Plant in Sinaloa
Background of the Protest
On Monday morning, members of the group Not Here! and indigenous communities of the Mayo-Yoreme peacefully occupied the entrance to the Gas Petrochemical of the West (GPO) ammonia plant, a subsidiary of the Proman Group, located in Ohuira, Sinaloa. The protestors are demanding the cancellation of the megaproject, asserting that its operation poses a significant threat to the local ecosystem and the survival of indigenous peoples in the region.
Spokesperson Felipe Montaño Valenzuela, the traditional indigenous governor of Ohuira, reported that between 150 and 200 individuals engaged in the sit-in, which commenced at 4:00 AM. Montaño emphasized, “We will stay here as long as necessary, indefinitely, until we have a response from the federal government.”
Historical Resistance
This occupation represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against the ammonia plant, which has faced opposition for over 12 years. The communities of Ohuira, Lazaro Cardenas, Walls, and Juan José Ríos view this action as historic and crucial in their efforts to protect their rights and the environment.
Demands for Closure and Restoration
The primary demand from the protesters is the cancellation and definitive closure of the ammonia plant, which is reportedly 88% complete and recognized as one of the largest of its kind globally. The communities are also calling for reparations for environmental damages already caused, including the destruction of mangroves and the filling of approximately 28 hectares of wetlands.
The protestors have requested intervention from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) to address the ecological impacts and ensure the restoration of the affected areas.
Environmental Concerns
The indigenous communities argue that the plant is located near the Santa María-Topolobampo-Ohuira wetland, a site of international importance recognized by the Ramsar Convention. They are particularly worried about the potential negative effects of the plant’s operation on biodiversity and the traditional economic activities reliant on the local ecosystem, which sustains hundreds of families in the region.
Federal Government Response
Recent meetings held by Alicia Barcena, head of the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), and Mariana Boy, the federal attorney for environmental protection, with representatives of the movement indicated the federal agencies’ intent to conduct environmental studies. However, community leaders are skeptical and believe the evaluation may prolong action on what they deem an urgent issue.
The struggle against the ammonia plant has a long history, beginning in 2014, as the Mayo-Yoreme communities sought respect for their rights to indigenous consultation. A significant legal battle culminated in the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), which issued a resolution regarding the consultation process in 2022.
Despite this, local representatives claim that subsequent consultations have been flawed and have reiterated their commitment to defending their territory against any attempts to activate or further the project.
International Attention
Organizations within the United Nations have alerted the governments of Mexico, Germany, and Switzerland about the potential risks posed by the ammonia plant, including concerns over chemical leaks and environmental contamination. With an estimated 6,600 people potentially affected by the project’s environmental and social impacts, this protest reflects broader issues of indigenous rights, environmental justice, and corporate responsibility.
In conclusion, the ongoing actions of the indigenous communities in Sinaloa underscore the urgent need for dialogue, respect for indigenous rights, and stringent environmental protections in the face of industrial development.