Sustainability in the Minerals Industry: Threat or Opportunity? (XXII International Mineral Processing Congress)

"The environmental effects of the mining and mineral industry include destruction of natural habitats, changes in river regimes and water tables, and other serious ecological impacts. In this century, it is likely that water will become a critical resource, and in most countries the mining industry competes for a share of this resource. The Kyoto Protocol may at first seem only relevant to the coal mining and power industry, however, it should not be forgotten that the mining and mineral industry is a significant consumer of power. Therefore the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol by most developed countries and the introduction of a carbon credit trading scheme will impact on the industry by potentially increased costs in utilities and waste discharges. It is clear therefore that the mining industry faces many challenges in the coming years. The mining industry?s commitment to sustainable development needs to continue to evolve, in order to meet these challenges effectively. With the advent of globalisation of the industry, it is now an opportune time for the industry to gain international agreement on how they want the industry to achieve sustainability in future years; such a progressive approach is necessary, otherwise government will force the industry to change, which may not necessarily be the best outcome for the industry.INTRODUCTIONThe Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 was an opportunity for world leaders to assemble and discuss strategies and initiatives that provide for further industrial growth without adverse effects on the environment. The World Summit on Sustainable Development held last year in Johannesburg, South Africa, was an opportunity to evaluate those initiatives implemented over the past 10 years, and to set a new and sustainable direction for the future. It is clear that industrial and technology development will continue at a rapid pace in order to serve the needs of a growing world population, but it is essential that the course of this development is well planned, well executed, and that it is sustainable. In reality, while government officials and politicians continue to debate policy and international protocols, the environment continues to suffer and the effects of climate change and global-warming become more real each day."