Community Perceptions on Environmental and Social Impacts of Mining in Limpopo South Africa and the Implications on Corporate Social Responsibility

Abstract

Perceptions of communities about mining and its impacts influence their relationship with mining companies in their vicinity. This study investigated the perceptions of communities on environmental and social impacts of nearby mines in Limpopo South Africa. Data was collected using a questionnaire administered to male and females above 18 years living in five villages located around the mine, and key informant interviews. Scores for perceptions on environmental impacts (3.17–3.26) were lower than those for perceptions of social impacts (4.86–4.89) on a scale where 1 represented positive perceptions, and 5, negative perceptions. Factors affecting perceptions on environmental impacts and social impacts differed but length of stay in the village was a common denominator. These negative perceptions may affect the relationship between the mine and surrounding communities and stand as a hindrance to the accomplishments of the goals of corporate social responsibility which forms the principle of operations of mines in the country.