The Mines exploited around the world release elements other than that which is sought, thus a gold mine makes it possible to produce as well silver but also releases toxic elements (uranium, antimony, arsenic and mercury .
ACP Energies must therefore face the Environmental and Social Impact in the mining sector. Progress remains to be made in large mines as in artisanal mines as illustrated in a recent thesis from the University of Quebec focusing on the violation of human rights in mines in Africa (Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Mali and Burkina Faso) operated by Canadian companies.
The amin impacts on the environments are -Air and water pollution; -Landslides, Displacement of populations, Child labor; -Degradation of natural environments (discharges, emissions, spills)…
Alternatively to coercive measures, another model needs to be developed, more based on the exemplary nature of good practices and incentives (assistance, productivity, image, etc.).
It is one of the foundations of the Responsible progress approach to ensure the achievement of objectives.
These Responsible behaviour (IRME selected by Eramet and Imerys for their sites) respond to the main challenges for the successful completion of the numerous mining projects planned in Africa facing to :
– Expectations of populations (dispossessed of their territory), opportunity to access jobs, transport, health and education
– End consumer expectations (respect for social and environmental rights)
– Fair sharing of the rent
-Risks to the environment and ecosystems and the need for Environmental, Social and Governance standards