EIA in developing countries: How does environmental impact assessment (EIA)/(AMDAL) support neoliberal mining? (a case study in Indonesia)

Abstract

Amdal regulation on mining exploitation according to Law No. 32 of 2009 aims to protect and manage the environment properly. This research reveals the paradox of EIA at the micro level (a case study) supporting the neoliberal agenda and facilitating economic development. This study aimed to explore how the practice of compensation for agricultural land at the scoping stage in the preparation of mining Amdal documents. The research was conducted in Mulawarman village, Kutai Kartanagara district, East Kalimantan province in the period 2004-2013. Historically, in the 2004-2013 period, Kutai Kartanegara Regency was the most massive in issuing mining business permits in Indonesia. The results of the study indicate that there was weak legal protection for agricultural land owners and unequal negotiation practices between companies and land owners without government supervision. The practice of compensation is a development tool rather than an environmental protection tool..