A new documentary, The Fabulous Gold Harvesting Machine, takes a critical look at the gold mining industry, centering on a machine that claims to revolutionize extraction by eliminating the use of toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide. The film, directed by award-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney, follows the journey of the machine's inventor, John Tumazos, as he attempts to bring his invention to the gold fields of the Amazon.
The machine and its promise
Tumazos's machine, which uses centrifugal force to separate gold from ore, is presented as a solution to the environmental devastation caused by small-scale gold mining. According to the film, artisanal and small-scale gold mining is responsible for nearly 40% of global mercury emissions, poisoning rivers and communities. The machine, if successful, could reduce the need for mercury, which is used to bind gold particles.
However, the documentary does not shy away from the complexities. It reveals that Tumazos has faced numerous setbacks, including financial difficulties and skepticism from miners. One miner in the film states, 'We've seen many promises before. This machine is just another one.'
Environmental and social impact
The film delves into the broader impact of gold mining, showing how it leads to deforestation, water pollution, and conflicts with indigenous communities. In one scene, a leader of the Yanomami people says, 'The gold brings only destruction. We do not want it.' The documentary reports that illegal mining has increased in the Amazon, with an estimated 20% of gold production being illegal, often linked to organized crime.
Gibney's film also highlights the role of consumer demand. It notes that gold is used in electronics and jewelry, and that recycling rates remain low. According to the documentary, the average gold ring produces 20 tonnes of waste ore.
Critical reception
Critics have praised the film for its balanced approach. The Guardian reviewer writes that the documentary is 'a gripping exposé of an industry that hides its true costs.' The film has been shown at several film festivals, including Sundance, where it received a standing ovation.
However, some have questioned the focus on the machine, arguing that it oversimplifies the issue. In a post-screening Q&A, Gibney acknowledged, 'The machine is not a silver bullet. But it represents a step towards change.'
The film ends with a call to action, urging viewers to support responsible mining practices and to reduce their own gold consumption. It concludes with the statistic that if every person in the US recycled one smartphone, the gold recovered could fund the cleanup of 10 contaminated mining sites.
