Minerals, Wealth and Progress - Mining and the Environment: From Ore to Metal - page 25

dispersed pollution from historic mining activities. Such pollution makes it difficult to sep-
arate given background from pollutants generated by recent human mining activity.

Impacts are Complex and Vary Widely

Mining impacts are many and varied, as discussed in foregoing sections, but tend to be
local. However, not all impacts are confined to the immediate vicinity of a mine; regional
impacts are commonly related to air pollution (dust, smelter emissions), ground water pol-
lution, naturally elevated background levels, and pollution of down stream water bodies
and flood plains. Pollution impacts are often long-term, but also can be delayed, as in long-
term acid rock drainage, becoming in effect chemical 'time bombs'. However, the socio-
economic impacts of mining and mine closure in the host country are often of a higher
significance than the physical and ecological environmental effects, particularly in the
short term and in the political sphere.

The socio-economic impacts
of mining and mine closure
in the host country are often
of a higher signifi cance than
the physical and ecological
environmental effects.

Society's Response

In terms of response, perhaps the most important reality of mining is that 'zero impact'
is essentially impossible. However, societies can respond to mining and mining induced
changes in a variety of ways ( Figure 1.6 ) . One is the reduction of demand for minerals
through substitution of traditional materials with synthetic ones (recognizing of course
that production of synthetic materials involves its own environmental impacts). Demand
can be further reduced by product recycling; by reworking of mineral wastes as secondary
resources; and by use of material efficient technologies. Although necessarily long-term,
ultimately such measures can relieve pressure on the environment.
Mine wastes and emissions can be decreased by improved management, particularly in
conjunction with new technology. Overall, the state of the environment can be improved
by appropriate environmental management. Environmental Impact Assessment and
Risk Assessment studies of mine sites have long been a requirement in identifying and
ameliorating environmental degradation and in preparing response strategies for possible
accidents. Introduction of environmental management systems as an integral element of
project design in all mining projects can further decrease potential impacts, and the 'design
for closure' approach can minimize impacts after closure.

1.5 THE UNIQUE RISK PROFILE OF MINING

Mining has a unique risk proi le, not only in relation to the environment or applied technol-
ogy, but i nancially, politically, and legally. In a legal context, an operator's rights to a min-
ing project (and its ability to generate cash l ow and proi ts) depend on a series of contracts
and interpretations of applicable mining laws as well as general law. Political instability may
encourage reinterpretation of contracts and legal requirements, or foster social disruptions
focused on mining projects. The international economic climate may change, driving costs
up and returns down. Even if global economic conditions are favourable for new mining
projects, risks remain and a comprehensive risk management plan is essential to a proi table
outcome. Table 1.3 lists the main risks to successful implementation according to the level
on which they occur: country level, sector level, and project/enterprise level. Lay (2006) and

Mining has a unique risk profi le,
not only in relation to the
environment and technology, but
fi nancially, politically, and legally.