Philippines' Environment Department to harmonize mining Guidelines with UN Objectives
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has announced its intention to revise the social development guidelines for mining firms in the country to align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
SDGs are 17 interconnected goals adopted globally in 2015, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental protection, peace, and justice.
In a statement on Tuesday, DENR Undersecretary for Integrated Environmental Science Carlos Primo David emphasized the need for miners' Social Development and Management Programs (SDMP) to align with the goals set by the UN.
The SDMP is a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at improving the living standards of mining operations’ hosts and neighboring communities.
SDMP activities include livelihood programs, educational support, health and medical assistance, public infrastructure, and sociocultural and religious support, the Environment Bureau outlined.
It also aims to “boost the economic contributions of mineral resources while safeguarding the environment, supporting affected communities, and developing local scientific and technical resources,” DENR said in a statement on Tuesday.
While some SDMP-accredited activities align with certain SDGs, David stressed that there are SDGs that the current social development policies do not fulfill. This includes the need to sustain improved living standards even after mining operations cease, an alternative livelihood for communities, and a reduction of stakeholders’ dependence on mining income.
The Environment Bureau clarified that it will not completely overhaul the existing SDMP but will be revised to include additional provisions based on the results of stakeholder consultations.
A consultation with community relations officers of mining companies was held on November 16, DENR said.
DENR explained that miners and permit holders are mandated to allocate 1.5 percent of their operating expenses to the SDMP, 75 percent of which shall be spent on community-development programs while the rest is for improving mining technology and education.
