The social and environmental impact of mining on local communities was highlighted when experts from environmental and engineering consultancy Wardell Armstrong addressed an international symposium in Peru at the beginning of March.

Wardell Armstrong technical director Nick Watson, based in Staffordshire, and John Eyre, technical director of the firm’s Wardell Armstrong International subsidiary in Truro, gave a joint talk on the importance of Corporate Social Responsibility in the mining industry at the symposium, organised by the Peruvian Institute of Safety in Mines.

They were amongst speakers from Europe, South Africa, the United States and South America who took part in the three-day symposium in Lima, the leading event of its kind in Peru.

As well as outlining the relevance of Corporate Social Responsibility to the industry, their "Mining and People" presentation included case studies based on the Wardell Armstrong’s work on environmental and social issues associated with mine closures in Eastern Europe and mining operations in Namibia.

The talk was keenly followed by an audience of 250 including representatives of mining companies, government ministries, regulators and non-governmental organisations. Afterwards it prompted a lively question and answer session.

"This was a particularly relevant topic because environmental and social issues will be increasingly important for future mining in Peru," said John Eyre.

"Operators have to take account of the impact their operations will have on local communities. Small and medium sized companies based in Peru were especially keen to learn of their responsibilities to exhibit greater transparency and engage more fully with communities.

"These issues have a bearing on all stages of the industry from initial exploration through operation to the eventual closure of sites."

He added: "Wardell Armstrong is skilled in all aspects of environmental and social assessment of mining developments internationally so we are well placed to advise on corporate responsibilities, assessment criteria and best practice."

Following the success of the presentation, Wardell Armstrong representatives have been invited back to Peru to address a seminar specifically on the subject of Corporate Social Responsibility in May.