Mining’s contribution to economic and social development

Central to economic and social development is the word sustainability. It describes a simple philosophy: that any human activity should be undertaken in such a way that it benefits the well-being of humans and the ecosystem over the long-term. This leads us to ask some basic questions. Can mining be part of the solution? Can the industry help governments to deliver on the UN Millennium Development Goals? Can mining address the disparities that exist in today’s world while strengthening local and national economies? Can the ‘resource curse’ be avoided? Our answer is a resounding ‘yes’. Yet it requires a combined effort – from companies, from governments, from donor agencies and civil society, from communities and indigenous peoples. All share in the responsibility, all play an important and distinct role.