The mining sector’s response to environmental sustainability

Abstract

Recent environmental catastrophes such as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill by BP in the Gulf of Mexico and the rising acid mine water in Johannesburg, South Africa, have demonstrated the far reaching environmental, social and financial consequences of unsustainable environmental management practices. Mining is an activity that significantly contributes to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product but has the potential to significantly impact the environment and a diverse set of stakeholders. As a result, it is imperative that mining activities are undertaken in a sustainable manner. This research studied the mining sector’s response to environmental sustainability on a company level. The study entailed the use of a mixed methods approach within a strategic framework to enable the researcher to confirm the maturity level of current practices and simultaneously explore the extent to which companies are preparing for the future. The key research findings suggest that South African mining companies have current practices that are relatively developed, with insufficient focus on innovation to meet the future sustainability challenge. Key recommendations to meet the sustainability challenge include industry collaboration, a change in paradigm by companies, integration of suppliers into product stewardship practices and adequately managing the tension between the local empowerment and environmental agenda. Copyright