V. Institute for Economics and Ecumenism. While traditional small-scale mining using simple equipment is not usually harmful to the environment, the unlicensed mining going on in many parts of Kalimantan using mercury is causing grave pollution problems. The problem has increased since the economic crisis began in 1997-8. In July, Pontianak Pos reported that West Kalimantan's Community Forum for the Victims of Unlicenced Mining was pressing the authorities to do something about the environmentally damaging mining polluting the River Tayan. A written statement signed by 130 villagers in the upper Tayan area calls for action against the mining, which is reducing fish stocks in the river.
Fishing is the main livelihood of local people.
Villagers said they were not against mining as long as it does not harm other people.