Research and Analysis

1.

Can the sector move towards a more viable structure that will contribute more effectively to sustainable development?

This discussion focuses on the internal structure of the industry, the forces that shape it and whether it is adequate – in its current form – to the task of maximising the industry's role in the transition to sustainable development. It looks at the principal external and internal forces expected to change the context in which the minerals industries operate in the future and the actions that could be taken in a transformed setting.

2.

How can the minerals sector support the development of national economies, especially in the poorest countries?

This topic looks at how mineral wealth can be best managed to strengthen developing countries' national economies in the long-term. The tension between the desire to create "investor friendly" conditions of investment, and the desire to ensure that the host country benefits from this investment is a focus. Macro-economic issues, minerals price volatility and the capacity needed to ensure effective policy design and implementation is also included in this analysis.

3.

How can the sector best contribute to sustained improvements in livelihoods and well-being at the community level?

This section aims to provide an overview of impacts – both positive and negative – of the mining life cycle at the community level, including their influence on livelihoods, social systems, cultures and health, and the boundaries of responsibility of industry, local and national governments. Company-community relations are also included.

4.

How can the minerals industries become leaders in environmental management?

This topic looks at the way in which the industry conducts its operations from the perspective of environmental management and will concentrate on where progress can be achieved. Recommendations on the management of large volume waste, dealing with abandoned mines remediation and mine closure policy will be developed.

5.

What are the ground rules for land: its management, access, control and use?

6.

How can we ensure that future markets and consumption patterns are compatible with a sustainable world?

This topic deals with new models of how to produce, process, use, recycle and dispose of metals and minerals. It looks at current patterns of metals consumption through minerals life cycle analyses and case studies of base metals, gold and diamonds. Trade and market access issues are also analysed in this context.

7.

How can we ensure meaningful access to information for all stakeholders?

Building a shared understanding of the role of information in creating a solid basis for sustainable development is needed. This section seeks to shed light on how the generation of information and the process by which it is communicated play a role in building or undermining trust and the ability to negotiate effectively in the sector.

8.

What should be the administrative relationships, role, responsibilities and performance standards of the key actors in a more sustainable future?

This section explores issues related to governance – the way in which decisions are made and how they are implemented. It aims to describe the current policy framework, governance challenges and new roles and responsibilities for sustainable development.