If demand for a metal is increasing, recycled metal alone cannot satisfy demand due to the time delay associated with the lifetime of products in the economy. Given our considerable appetite for mineral raw materials (MRMs), primary sourcing of MRMs (extracted from the ground) is inevitable. The key to responsible mining is good governance, covering economic, environmental and social issues and involving stakeholders from government, industry and civil society. To be efficient, environmental and social management should be implemented all along the mine life cycle, from the exploration phase to the post-mining phase.
Mining waste is the Achilles’ Heel of this industry: With respect to acid mine drainage (AMD) formation, the question “are all ores worth mining?” is a valid question. Given Europe’s considerable appetite for certain metals, it would seem reasonable to develop responsible mining on European soil, rather than to simply import metals and outsource emissions.
Learning objectives:
- Better understand of some key drivers behind our dependence on primary (extracted) raw materials
- Clarify the mine life cycle and the main concepts underlying responsible mining
- Highlight the importance of good mining waste management
- Reflect on Europe’s demand for mineral raw materials