.
George Francis (1999) notes that there are three primary pre-requisites for sustainable societies which include: "ecological sustainability, economic viability, and social equity. As an ideal, sustainability meshes well with the desire of the most people to achieve decent levels of heal and well-being, in pleasant surroundings, with strong community network, and a diversity of opportunities for work and fulfillment ". A big challenge for any mining company is to employ in a fair partnership with the associated communities and avoiding environmental deprivation and social disruption. Where there is no previous mining practice or the benefits have not been shared equitably, a feeling that the mining operation is intruding into their environment may be strong. The key to build a sustainable mining community is to minimize this view and create a strong relationship. .
Cases of Company/Community Relations.
In 1994, a US survey carried out by Roper Research, ranked the mining industry in the 24th place in terms of public population (Prager, 1997). People perceived mining as a risky and dangerous activity which comes with environmental impacts. This view may be still strong amongst urban residents who know little of the benefits of mining, despite the fact that they are the largest consumers. The global environment is highly visible and mining companies need to have a good reputation as being socially responsible. According to Jackie Tuck (2005) there are three major factors that need to be heeded: .
Environmental impacts must not pose any unacceptable risks to the associated communities.
Communications between the mining company and the communities must be transparent and effective.
Mine development is perceived to bring a net benefit to the community.
The following section will present examples of what can happen if these three aspects are overlooked. Also, it will provide examples that point to a more productive and supportive relationship between mining companies and their associated communities.
