Conversations in Conflict Studies presents: Tom Perreault

“Sedimented Histories & a History of Sediment: Livelihood on the Bolivian Altiplano” Tom Perreault, Associate Professor of Geography. Hard rock mining has long been central to the Bolivian economy, and its importance has only increased in recent years. Mining activities require intensive water withdrawals, and frequently results in acute water contamination. On Bolivia's high altitude, semi-arid Altiplano, the impacts of mining on water quality and quantity have grave implications for small-scale indigenous farmers living adjacent to mine sites. Using the concept of 'waterscapes' as an analytical lens, this talk examines the co-production of mining, water and rural livelihood on the Bolivian Altiplano, and considers the possibilities for social mobilization and social justice.