The Impact of PGM Mining on Communities

Repeatedly, PGM mining companies have been confronted with allegations from NGOs on potential human rights impacts of mining activities on communities. The interaction with adjacent host communities impacted or affected by mining is a particular challenge to PGM companies. They are committed to contributing to and complementing government's role of developing sustainable communities. This can be only achieved by actively and constructively engaging with stakeholders and local authorities to maintain and develop the social infrastructure in the context of limited state funding.

The extraction industry is also an important engine for economic growth and social advancement in developing and transition countries. The companies are often some of the main employers in the region, generating considerable tax revenues for governments and opportunities for communities by providing employment, sustainable livelihoods and alleviating poverty. In South Africa, for example, mining is one of the main engines of the national economy.

As an association we cannot comment on individual allegations on behalf of our members, but we welcome an open dialogue with stakeholders. IPA members implement and maintain ethical business practices and sound systems of corporate governance, based on internationally recognized standards like the ILO Conventions, OECD Principles, and the United Nations Global Compact.