Institutional challenges for mining and sustainability in Peru
Anthony J Bebbington1, Jeffrey T Bury
1School of Environment and Development, University of Manchester, 1.54 Humanities Bridgeford Street, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom. tony.bebbington@manchester.ac.uk
Summary
Mining expansion in developing nations strains water resources and livelihoods. Institutional failures and power imbalances hinder local sustainability, necessitating better integration of mining, water, and development governance.
Area of Science:
- Human-environmental sciences
- Sustainability science
- Development studies
Background:
- Global mining growth presents development opportunities but also sustainability challenges in developing economies.
- Debates focus on institutional arrangements and socio-political conditions for aligning mining, livelihoods, and development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the effects of extractive industries on livelihoods in Peru, a key mining expansion center.
- To identify conditions favoring local sustainability arrangements amidst mining growth.
- To test hypotheses on institutions, knowledge, learning, and sustainability in human-environmental contexts.
Main Methods:
- Multiyear, three-country research program utilizing in-depth and comparative case study analysis.
- Employed mapping, spatial analysis, surveys, in-depth interviews, and participant observation.
- Included direct participation in public debates on mining regulation for development.
Main Results:
- Mining expansion significantly pressures water resources, livelihood assets, and social relationships.
- Institutional fragmentation in governance (mining, water, development) and power imbalances favoring investment exacerbate these pressures.
- Poor communication exists between mining sector knowledge systems and local populations.
Conclusions:
- Current institutional and power structures in mining regions often undermine local sustainability.
- Effective governance requires integrating mining, water, and development, prioritizing local livelihoods and environments.
- Improved knowledge exchange between industry and communities is crucial for sustainable outcomes.
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