What's Happening?
Research by T&E and Earthworks highlights significant weaknesses in global mining waste legislation, urging reforms to protect people and the environment. The study benchmarks mining waste rules in six
countries against the Safety First guidelines, revealing gaps in technology use and tailings facility closure requirements. Brazil leads with strong legislative frameworks, banning upstream dams and enforcing monitoring requirements. The US State of Montana also has robust monitoring standards. The report calls for governments to align mining waste laws with Safety First, including revising the EU Extractive Waste Directive and reforming the US 1872 mining law. Indonesia and South Africa are urged to close regulatory gaps and establish national standards.
Why It's Important?
Mining waste management is crucial for environmental protection and community safety, especially as demand for critical minerals rises. Weak legislation poses risks of environmental degradation and public health threats. The call for reform aims to establish stronger regulations, ensuring safe mining practices and reducing harm. Aligning laws with Safety First guidelines could lead to more sustainable mining operations, benefiting communities and ecosystems. The push for legislative changes reflects growing awareness of mining's impact, potentially influencing global standards and encouraging responsible resource extraction.
What's Next?
Governments are expected to review and potentially revise mining waste legislation to align with Safety First guidelines. The European Commission's upcoming EU Circular Economy Act may include revisions to the Extractive Waste Directive. In the US, Congress may consider reforms to the 1872 mining law, addressing taxpayer and environmental concerns. Indonesia and South Africa are likely to evaluate their regulatory frameworks, aiming to close gaps and establish clear standards for tailings storage. These efforts could lead to improved safety and environmental outcomes, setting a precedent for global mining practices.
