promoting mining in

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Mining projects vary according to the type of metals or minerals to be extracted from the earth. This ultimately defines the structural phases of a mining project which typically begin with the exploration phase and ending with the post closure period after commercial production. The various stages in the mining projects value chain are associated with different sets of environmental impacts.

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Exploration phase

Prospecting and exploration are precursors to actual mining. These two processes are often linked and can be done simultaneously. Ideally, the exploration phase seeks to determine as accurately as possible the size and value of a mineral deposit, utilizing techniques similar to but more refined than those used in prospecting2. Environmental impacts of this phase can be profound due to resource feasibility assessments. It is for this reason that an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, and stakeholder representative bodies such as the Zimbabwe Miners Federation must embark on deliberate and co ordinated environmental education and awareness programmes to educate mining entrepreneurs and the general public on the provisions of the law and imperatives of sustainable environmental management. This will go hand in hand with effective community participation in the articulation of these requirements.

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It follows therefore that there is need to establish environmental oversight groups with a singular mandate of protecting the environment in mining communities. Effective community participation in environmental decision making is necessary for contemporary natural resources management practice, and is the cornerstone of responsible and democratic environmental governance and a fundamental prerequisite to achieving sustainable development.8Furthermore, there is vast opportunity to reclaim and rehabilitate abandoned mining pits by both large and small scale miners in order to curb further degradation of the landscape and finally revert these lands to further productive use. There is need to create environmental awareness campaigns and/or education in various mining communities as a means of ensuring sound and sustainable use of the environment in the face of on­going mining activities in the country. This will create the necessary balance between development/economic growth and manda...

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