To keep up with the increasing global demand for metals, there is a constant strain on the mining corporations to perform mining that has a major impact on the environment. Though it represents a valuable opportunity to benefit the economy and local communities, but also includes social issues including the environment and the human health consequences of mining and not to forget disparity in income distribution from mining revenues are disproportionately felt at the local community level.
Even in this so called digital-age, the mining sector remains significant to almost every aspect of mining. That is from generating employment to accelerating the economy, our future is largely dependent on mining. However, with investors becoming more aware and prioritization given to sustainability in their investment choices, mining firms are also adapting to higher standards of responsibility.
The importance of mining
To build resources: Metals like aluminum, gold, and iron can't be grown or made. So these are probably mined since these are the critical metals that have several uses from construction of buildings, packaging for most eatable to jewels- yet most of the world minerals still remain undiscovered.
Energy to fuel growth: In recent years, mining claims for gold and other precious metals have increased dramatically and the demand for sources of energy continues to rise.
Generating employment: The mining industry is the leading engine for job creating and employment growth- particularly for the communities they are operating in as well as a large source of revenue for the government.
Issues arising due to mining
Pollution
Habitat destruction
Excessive use of water
and climate change
Efforts to mitigate environmental impacts, protect communities and improve mining practices should be undertaken. But how? The answer is simple, with responsible mining solutions adopted by reputable mining companies.
Responsible mining can ensure improved employment conditions, meaning that resources can still be sourced, but ethically. And this way, communities also don't lose their primary source of income while ensuring the economic and sustainable future of local communities.
Our global economy is fuelled by natural resources that are extracted from the earth. That is when these are removed it can lead to deforestation, species loss, social rifts between communities, erosion, and pollution. Such rifts can lead to disruption in the supply of natural resources. To combat these challenges, firms need to strike a balance between society's needs and follow an environmentally sound approach to operations.
In general, how a company dictates its operations simply goes beyond the environmental policy to meet the regulatory standards set for responsible mining. Here is a list of factors the company can follow, while looking for responsible mining solutions:
As a basic part of long and short-range planning for all minings and operations, companies need to incorporate environmental matters at the core.
Comply with the applicable laws, rules, and regulations while mining in a certain area and follow the prescribed standards and criteria while ensuring that the miners also follow the same.
Implementing new and more effective practices for environmental protection, compliance and try out new ways in response to the environmental pollution caused by mining.
Take reasonable measures in response to the needs of the communities in which they operate.
All-in-all, getting the balance right is crucial, especially for the mines operating in low-income countries. Though the mining industry is taking reasonable steps towards the local community's welfare with optimization of significant resources some challenges still remain at the forefront. Before mining companies look for ways to conserve natural resources, reduce their environmental impact and increase the safety of the communities living there, they should be aware that each mine is either driven by the laws, rules, and regulations out of their own volunteer obligations.