The Social Impacts of Mine Closure in South Africa: Housing Policy and Place Attachment

This study investigates the relationship between mining, mine closure, and housing policy in post-apartheid South Africa, arguing that the dependencies created by the mining industry and mine housing policies cause serious societal problems when a mine closes. It applies the concepts of place attachment, asset-based development, and social disruption and will be of interest to students and scholars researching the social impacts of mining and the extractive industries, social geography, and sustainable development, as well as policymakers and practitioners working with mine closure or social impact assessments.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate interplay between mining, mine closure, and housing policy in post-apartheid South Africa. It makes a compelling argument that the interdependencies forged by the mining industry and mine housing policies during the operational phase of a mine can lead to severe societal challenges upon its closure. By employing the concepts of place attachment, asset-based development, and social disruption, the research offers valuable insights into the social ramifications of mining and the extractive industries. It is of utmost interest to students and scholars engaged in the examination of the social impacts of mining and the extractive industries, social geography, sustainable development, as well as policymakers and practitioners involved in mine closure or social impact assessments.

The study begins by examining the historical context of mining in South Africa, highlighting its role in shaping the country's economic and social landscape. It then explores the impact of mining on local communities, including the displacement of residents, the creation of mining-related employment opportunities, and the provision of essential services. The research further examines the complex relationship between mining, mine closure, and housing policy, highlighting the challenges faced by communities in the aftermath of mine closures.

One of the key findings of the study is that the dependencies created by the mining industry and mine housing policies during the operational phase of a mine can have long-lasting consequences for communities when the mine closes. The closure of mines often leads to the loss of employment opportunities, the deterioration of infrastructure, and the erosion of social cohesion. This, in turn, can exacerbate existing social problems, such as poverty, inequality, and homelessness.

To address these challenges, the study proposes a range of policy interventions that can help mitigate the social impacts of mine closure. These interventions include the development of alternative economic opportunities, the improvement of infrastructure, and the promotion of community-based development initiatives. The research also emphasizes the importance of engaging with local communities in the planning and implementation of these policies to ensure that they are tailored to meet the specific needs and aspirations of the affected communities.

In conclusion, this comprehensive study provides a valuable contribution to the literature on the social impacts of mining and the extractive industries. It highlights the need for a holistic and integrated approach to mine closure that considers the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of the issue. By applying the concepts of place attachment, asset-based development, and social disruption, the research offers practical insights and recommendations that can help policymakers and practitioners address the challenges of mine closure and promote sustainable development in post-apartheid South Africa.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032200552