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Activities related to mining and sustainable development have been an important part of UNEP's work for a number of years. This is, in fact, the second issue of Industry and Environment devoted to the subject. The environmental effects of the mining industry include destruction of natural habitats, changes in river regimes and water tables, and other serious ecological impacts. Although the industry has succeeded in making improvements, serious problems remain, beginning with the need to reduce the number and severity of accidents.

In the lead-up to Rio+10 in 2002, UNEP is reviewing the mining industry's environmental performance and management systems, as well as the use of voluntary agreements to complement government regulatory initiatives. The mining industry faces many challenges in the coming years. This issue of Industry and Environment presents the viewpoints of different stakeholders, thus helping to define both challenges and possible solutions. The mining industry's commitment to sustainable mineral development needs to continue to evolve, in order to meet these challenges effectively.

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Mining is of fundamental importance in the economy of a number of countries, both developed and developing. However, its activities have serious consequences for the environment - locally and globally. Mining has destroyed natural habitats, polluted the air, soil and water, and produced enormous amounts of waste that can have environmental impacts for decades after mine closure.

Until recently, environmental impacts were not given great importance by mining companies and few regulations needed to be complied with. Although environmental concerns are now increasingly integrated in the planning and operation of mines, many operations, particularly in developing countries, still need to be upgraded in order to meet current expectations of environmental responsibility.

This issue of Industry and Environmente, which is focused on mining and sustainable development, is concerned with the development of solutions rather than with closely examining mining technologies or environmental impacts. It contributes to efforts by the mining industry and others to make that industry a major contributor to sustainable development.

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• Details on "Mining and Sustainable Development (1997, Vol 20 N° 4) available at the UNEP DTIE Publication site.

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