Legislation to open mining on Pagan Island was blocked by the Senate of the Northern Marianas Islands until possible social, environmental, and economic effects are evaluated. Over 20 years ago, a violent volcanic eruption on Pagan Island forced the relocation of all its indigenous inhabitants, who hoped to eventually return. Now that the lush greenery has re-grown and the island is again habitable, the former residents wish to return. But the abundance of volcanic ash that littered the land in 1981 is sought by large-scale mining companies that wish to use the natural pozzolan to strengthen concrete.
