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Monday, 25th September 2006 (3704 views)

The mining industry has changed with the times to allow communities to have more say in the developments of projects, according to a leading executive.

Speaking about risk management in the sector, Rio Tinto managing director Charlie Lenegan said there have been "fundamental changes in the way in which mineral companies like Rio Tinto engage with communities".

He said that in the recent past it had been government agreement alone that was needed for a mining operation to proceed. Nowadays, however, the public is better informed and educated and more willing to engage in the developments that affect it.

Companies such as Rio Tinto, which has significant gold mining interests, have come to realise that community opposition can halt a development project altogether and that government approval is only one part of the process.

The changes have led to a more democratic and sustainable process within the mining industry, ensuring that local voices are heard and that mining companies abide by the rules.

Mr Lenegan also points to technological advances, including satellite surveys and more precise mineral estimation processes, as ways in which mining is becoming increasingly sustainable.

 

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