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Improvements needed in transparency and environmental soundness of EBRD-financed hydropower facilities

Advocacy letter | 15 December, 2015 | Download PDF

In light of the worrying findings of a study on hydropower projects in southeast Europe – most notably the high number of projects in protected areas – this letter asks the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to better implement its environmental and social policy and hydropower sustainability criteria, establish no-go zones in protected areas and rivers of outstanding quality, and disclose project information about projects with a clear environmental impact which are financed through financial intermediaries.

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Infographics: Pristine Balkan rivers threatened by European “green energy” funding for hydropower

Leaflet | 14 December, 2015 | Download PDF

A wave of hydropower development fuelled by European public funding and EU companies is endangering pristine river environments in the Balkans.

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Briefing: Centerra gold and the Kumtor gold mine, Kyrgyzstan

Advocacy letter | 14 December, 2015 | Download PDF

An update on the contentious EBRD project and its client, following a field visit by Bankwatch and partners to the mining site in October 2015

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Financing for hydropower in protected areas in southeast Europe

Study | 11 December, 2015 | Download PDF

Southeast Europe is experiencing a wave of hydropower projects. In a region with a deadly combination of Europe’s last wild rivers, rampant corruption and inadequate nature protection, the potential for damage is immense. In order to address this issue, we need to know who is making it happen. This research aims – to the extent possible given the secrecy around the financial sector – to find out who are the main actors involved in financing hydropower projects in the region, both overall and inside of protected areas. Update January 2017 The EBRD has said that financing has been cancelled for four small hydropower plants in Macedonia: Zrnovska reka 1, Zrnovska reka 2, Estericka reka, Kadina reka. In addition, financing has been cancelled for the 68 MW Boskov Most plant in the Mavrovo National Park, also in Macedonia. Regarding the Ternove SHPP in Albania, the EBRD has said that it had conducted an on-site investigation into the concerns received in a letter from an affected citizen. The bank found nothing to substantiate the allegations. Bankwatch will continue to monitor the issue.

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Confirmatory application for disclosure of EIB documents related to Volkswagen loans

Advocacy letter | 24 November, 2015 | Download PDF

Following the revelations around Volkswagen cheating emission tests, Bankwatch requested information from the European Investment Bank about its loans to the car maker. After some delays, the bank released only part of the requested information, despite the profound public interest in the case.

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