Participatory processes, mine closure and social transitions

Speaker: Sarah Mackenzie

Abstract: Many of the formal or informal mechanisms used to manage mine closure indicate the desirability of engaging communities. However, much understanding of leading practice to support participation of public interest and rights-holder groups relates to the construction and operational phases of mining. Research on the benefits of public participation in managing mining impacts is widely accepted, yet the extent to which this applies and what modification it might need for participation in closure activities is less explored.

Sarah Mackenzie presents the results from the Participatory processes, mine closure and social transitions research project, carried out under the Social Aspects of Mine Closure Research Consortium at UQ. The research team included Dr Jo-Anne Everingham and Kamila Svobodova at the Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining, and Kathy Witt of the UQ Centre for Natural Gas.

The objective of the project was to understand the potential participatory mechanisms to achieve a socially just transition and a positive social legacy as integral to any concept of sustainability of mining.

Bio: Sarah Mackenzie is an international development professional with deep field experience in Africa and Latin America. She has worked extensively with civil society and non-government organisations (NGOs), particularly in the field of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Her areas of expertise include: community engagement, community development, social investment, and gender as a cross-cutting theme. Since joining SMI, Sarah has been involved in projects in Burkina Faso, Niger, Chile, Peru, and Australia.