Introduction

The overall objective of the Ore Mining and Environmental Technologies Information Network (OMENTIN) is to raise public awareness and understanding for ore mining technologies and introduce the challenges environmental scientists encounter when facing mining-related environmental issues.

The need for the creation of the OMENTIN network was clearly demonstrated by the cyanide spill in Romania in January 2001. Although national and international press were immediately discussing the accident, accurate and factual information available for the public remained scanty and inadequate.

The OMENTIN network was developed during 2001-2004 as a cooperative effort of six project partners. The specific objectives of establishing the network were:

Raising public awareness for ore-mining technologies
Raising public awareness for environmental research on impact mitigation and mining site-rehabilitation
Assessing relevant Environmental Impact Assessment regulations in the EU and associated states
Addressing mining related issues of public concern
Assisting environmental NGO's in improving their understanding of mining and related issues