By Michelle Ducut
A new study funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aims to promote sustainable mining practices in the Philippines. The research, conducted by the University of Glasgow and the University of the Philippines Los Baños, will be presented at the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA) conference in November.
Dr. Enrico Paringit, Executive Director of the DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research Development (PCIEERD), emphasized the need for a balance between economic growth and environmental protection in the mining industry. The three-year study, dubbed Project PAMANA, focuses on addressing environmental issues in abandoned mines across 10 critical river basins in the country.
A related project, Philippines Remediation of Mine Tailings (PROMT), aims to develop innovative methods for handling and cleaning up mine waste, recovering valuable metals, and reducing environmental impact.
By promoting sustainable mining practices, the Philippines can ensure the long-term viability of its mining industry while minimizing its ecological footprint.