Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) secretary Roy A. Cimatu, in a natural resources development forum, pointed out the need for a firmer hand in managing the environmental issues of the industry.
In his speech during the 1st Philippine Natural Resources Development Forum organized by the European Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, Cimatu cited waste production as an area that needs more focus.
The mining industry is considered as the world’s largest waste producer although there is no estimation of how much waste it generates globally.
However, a study by Godavari Institute of Engineering and Technology’s Department of Mining Engineering in India estimated that 110 tons of waste ore and 200 tons of overburden are generated in the production of one ton of copper ore.
The environment secretary expressed his discontent on the weak enforcement of environmental laws and mitigating measures in the Philippines.
Cimatu urged the mining sector to cooperate and do their part and “strictly comply with environmental laws and standards.”
Meanwhile, the idea of upgrading the monitoring system, standards, and practices of the mining industry was also suggested by Cimatu believing that doing so can better address the environmental problems of the sector.
Alongside this, Cimatu added that pursuing sustainable exploration and extraction including a shift to renewable energy is vital in the effort to make sure mineral resources will be available for the future generation.
