Dilemma: Sustainable mining or socially responsible mining?
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Date
2024
Authors
Trumić, Milan
Nikolić, Vladimir
Stojanović, Goran
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Mining Institute Ltd. Belgrade
Source
Mining and geology today [proceedings] - III International symposium, Belgrade, 28-29.11.2024.
Volume
Issue
Abstract
Given the forecasted exponential growth of demand for rare soils and critical raw materials throughout the world, and especially due to the desire to reduce the dependence on imports, the European Union and Serbia will have to face mining challenges in the coming years. The production of critical raw materials requires investment in technologically advanced and environmentally responsible mining facilities, as well as involvement with the local communities for mutual benefit. Serbia has significant reserves of the aforementioned raw materials, but in order to become a significant player in the European supply chain, it is necessary to focus on sustainable mining practices. This leads to a dilemma between the concepts of sustainable and socially responsible mining that arises due to the different emphases of these two approaches, although both strive for ethical and responsible mining of natural resources. 1. Environmental component: Sustainable mining emphasizes the reduction of negative environmental impact. This includes techniques that minimize soil damage, water pollution and emissions of harmful gases. Socially responsible mining, on the other hand, includes environmental protection, but focuses more on the interests and the well-being of the local community and workforce. 2. Social aspect: Socially responsible mining emphasizes the protection of community rights, transparency, respect for local customs and investment in community development. Although sustainable mining includes social aspects, its primary focus often remains on environmental sustainability. 3. Economic impact: Sustainable mining usually takes a longer-term view of economic impact, aiming at using natural resources carefully in order to preserve them for future generations. Socially responsible mining is aimed at short and medium-term economic benefits for the community, through employment and investment in local infrastructure. The question is whether sustainability can be achieved only through environmental measures or whether it is necessary to introduce social and economic aspects through socially responsible mining. Ideally, sustainable mining should include social responsibility so that companies could achieve long-term goals and justify the social impact on local communities.
Description
Keywords
sustainable development, mining life cycle, environment, society, economy
Citation
DOI
10.5937/RGD24004T
Scopus
ISSN
ISBN
978-86-82673-24-8
License
ARR