The socio-economic aspects of mine closure and sustainable development: literature overview and lessons for the socio-economic aspects of closure: Report 1
J Stacey, A Naude, M Hermanus, P Frankel

This study was undertaken to generate a locally relevant guideline for the socio-economic aspects of mine closure for South African closure practitioners and decision makers. It should also represent a resource for interested and involved stakeholders. Mine closure, and its related post-closure social, environmental and economic characteristics, is part of the lifecycle of mining operations, given the finite nature of the ore resource. Many coal mines are anticipated to close in the next ten to fifteen years in Mpumalanga, as the epicentre of the industry shifts towards the Waterberg. Social aspects of mine closure have been historically underplayed, and underresearched. . . .