Source: Mining Technology
Author: JP Casey
From Rio Tinto’s bauxite operations in Australia to Nautilus’ Solwara 1 project in Papua New Guinean waters, the work of mining companies can have a significant – and often destructive – impact on local wildlife. Guidelines and legislation operating above the level of national governments could help to guide mining towards a less destructive future, but questions remain over their effectiveness.
The environmental impacts of mining operations are well-documented, and laws often require companies to commit to environmental rehabilitation projects before operations can even begin. Recently, discussion of the consequences of mining has shifted to an even narrower focus: the potential impact on wildlife.
On both land and at sea, national legislation has a significant influence on the protection offered to wildlife, and a lack of regulation can pose a significant threat to wildlife.
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