Nonrenewable but Sustainable? Environmental Planning for Mining Ventures

This paper attempts to address the question of what might constitute sustainable development within the context of planning for a project that involves nonrenewable resource extraction, and hence is likely to have irreversible environmental impacts. The study will explore the ways in which the mineral sector is attempting to redefine itself through consultative initiatives. What are the key elements of mining plans that need to be considered, specially given the monopsonistic power which mining companies may possess? Given the tremendous need for major capital investment through mineral exploration in many parts of the world, planners will increasingly be faced with the challenge of balancing environmental and social visions of sustainability. The aim of this narrative is to analyse the divergent discourse on minerals and sustainability and provide an evaluative framework for future projects.