ABSTRACT
This chapter focusses on the evolving relationship between mining, people and the enveloping ecosystem. It reviews environmental implications by mine life-cycle phase and summarizes imposed environmental stress and opportunities for restoration (physical, chemical, and biological). Lastly, eight key contemporary issues are described including: (1) ‘fairness’ in the distribution of benefits, costs and risks, responsibilities, and accountabilities; (2) artisanal and small scale mining (ASM); (3) the legacy of old operations; (4) biodiversity preservation and enhancement; (5) water and geochemical management; (6) tailings dam and impoundment design criteria; (7) closure and post-closure challenges; and (8) change management and dealing with industry laggards.
