Legislative frameworks and sustainable mining practices in South Africa: integrating environmental and socio-economic objectives

Authors: Erasmus, J; Potgieter, J Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2415_92

Cite As:
Erasmus, J & Potgieter, J 2024, 'Legislative frameworks and sustainable mining practices in South Africa: integrating environmental and socio-economic objectives', in AB Fourie, M Tibbett & G Boggs (eds), Mine Closure 2024: Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1271-1280, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2415_92



Abstract:
As climate change intensifies, the mining sector faces the dual challenge of maintaining economic viability while upholding environmental responsibilities. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the South African Mining Act and related regulatory frameworks, focusing on the implementation of end land use plans (ELUPs) and closure criteria as critical tools for achieving sustainable post-mining landscapes. The study delves into key legislative instruments, including the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA) (Republic of South Africa 1998) and the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002 (MPRDA) (Republic of South Africa 2002), and examines their integration with sustainable development goals (SDGs) to foster ecological resilience and socio-economic development. Central to the discussion is the role of ELUPs and closure criteria in guiding the rehabilitation of mining sites. ELUPs serve as strategic frameworks that set long-term goals for land use after mining operations have ceased, while closure criteria provide specific, measurable standards to achieve these goals. The paper emphasises the importance of aligning mining activities with climate-conscious strategies, ensuring that postmining landscapes not only restore ecosystems but also contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of local communities. The review highlights how the South African regulatory context, when effectively implemented, supports the transition from extraction to rehabilitation, addressing both environmental and socio-economic dimensions. By integrating adaptive management practices and robust environmental monitoring, ELUPs can play a pivotal role in mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable development. This paper contributes to the discourse on sustainable mining by offering a detailed analysis of the regulatory landscape and proposing practical approaches for enhancing compliance and community engagement in mining closure practices.

Keywords: closure criteria, end land use, climate change, sustainability, rehabilitation, mining, end land use plan, socio-economic

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