Environmental contamination, especially pollution of water sources, is causing significant concern in areas where Jesuits are based, according to a global survey conducted by the Justice in Mining Network. The survey also showed there is strong interest in mining justice issues, but indicated that many Jesuits and lay colleagues feel they have insufficient knowledge and expertise to take action.
The Justice in Mining Network conducted the online survey last year, with support from Magis and the Xavier Network, to establish the primary causes of concern in areas with a Jesuit presence, whether or not those Jesuit institutions or communities are actively involved in mining advocacy.
The majority (38 percent) of survey respondents were in countries in Asia Pacific, followed by countries in Latin America (31 percent), South Asia (24 percent), Europe (21 percent), Africa (17 percent) and finally US and Canada (7 percent). The respondents in Asia Pacific reported a distinctly higher number of precious metals (50 percent) being mined over other resources.
The survey confirmed that the impact of extractive industries on communities and the environment is significant and far-reaching as everyone is a stakeholder in some way, whether as end-users of products, as investors, as advocates or as members of local communities most immediately affected by mining.
The respondents indicated they would like to enhance their knowledge of how extractive operations affect the surrounding land and communities and also build their capacity to respond.
Divestment from fossil fuels was another issue respondents said demanded attention. While some had accessed the materials around this subject at www.justiceinmining.com, others were not aware they existed. With the fossil free movement gaining momentum internationally, the Justice in Mining Network encourages all stakeholders to consider a divestment strategy that may also encourage active investments in alternative sources of energy.
Respondents agreed that Jesuits and Jesuit institutions should work together to advocate on behalf of communities affected by mining and in favour of reducing waste and unnecessary harm to the environment. The Justice in Mining Network is keen to explore opportunities for connecting across conferences for such work and invites those with ideas on this subject to get in contact.
Forming international alliances with human rights and environmental groups was another suggestion from respondents, recognising the vast scope of “justice in mining” and the benefits of collaboration, particularly around advocacy.
Access the survey report here.