By 
Zambia’s efforts to manage mining-related pollution are unlikely to yield significant reductions, according to BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, as the government continues to prioritise copper output growth over environmental safeguards.
On August 6, the US government ordered all personnel to evacuate parts of northern Zambia due to ongoing health threats from heavy metal pollution following the collapse of a tailings dam in February.
According to a report obtained from Mining Weekly on Thursday, BMI noted that Zambian authorities responded by downplaying the risks, claiming that heavy metal concentrations in affected river systems were steadily declining.
Read More: Govt dismisses U.S. health alert, assures Kitwe District water is safe
“As it stands, Zambia faces a significant pollution burden in part owing to its large mining sector.“This has led to some action by the government, such as fines and promises of clean-up efforts,” the think tank said.
However, BMI warned that anti-pollution measures would likely remain a lower priority in Zambia, as in other mining-focused countries, increasing environmental and health risks.
Sub-Saharan African and Latin American markets, along with countries with permissive regulatory frameworks like Mongolia, are expected to be most affected.
BMI also highlighted wider risks linked to weak environmental oversight, including violations of Indigenous Peoples’ rights and criminal activity, citing the recent seizure of four tonnes of mercury by Peruvian authorities, reportedly intended for illicit gold mining.
“Despite these risks, we expect growth in the mining industry across many markets amid rising demand for metals such as copper and gold,” BMI said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments