Revenues of –
mostly international – mining companies often do not benefit the local
communities. Local organisations tend to lack accurate information
on the activities of mining companies that operate in their area. Understanding
of international regulations and the structure of international companies is poor.
Local organisations do not play a part in policy-making on a regional, national
or local level.
SOMO supports
organisations that work towards sustainable development. Extraction should not
harm the environment, the local population should be involved in
decision-making processes, revenues should benefit local communities and
companies must observe international and national regulations concerning
workers´, environmental and human rights.
Future research will focus on out-sourcing, supply chains and capacity
building of local organisations in Southern Africa.
watch videos extractives & mining >
News Extractives & Mining
24-03-2010
The strategy of active commitment is becoming increasingly popular among ethical investors: with increasing frequency they are pursuing an active dialogue with the management of businesses to encourage them to improve their record on human rights and environmental awareness. SOMO is keen to support this effective method of influencing the corporate sector with recently published infosheets on the electronics sector (metal mining, production and e-waste).
16-02-2010
For the first time in Olympic history, the medals at the Olympic Games contain gold, silver and copper that has been recovered from electronic waste (e-waste). The recovery of medals from e-waste is important, because it reduces demand for scarce metals such as gold and copper. The mining of metals is often tied up with a wide range of social and environmental risks.
09-02-2010
Colourful gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies and emeralds, grace a huge amount of jewellery. But the world behind these gemstones looks a lot less attractive, poor working conditions are widespread. This is shown from a new study by SOMO into the supply chain of coloured gemstones.
