By Michael J Vincent (Director – Deloitte Consulting)
Acid mine drainage could destroy Africa’s economic heartland within the year. Can South Africa deal with the challenge of acid mine drainage and rid the country of a threat to its socioeconomic development, the environment, people and a much-needed natural resource?
It is true that for the majority of us, it is difficult to differentiate between reality and science fiction when it comes to the current debate on acid mine drainage (―AMD‖) on the Reef. Protagonists in the debate either spell out the issues with great passion or dismiss it out of hand on the basis that the matter will be resolved before it reaches the environmental critical stage. AMD has received widespread television and press coverage but it seems that South Africa is no closer to resolving what appears to be its version of the Chernobyl disaster. As early as 1987, the US Environmental Protection Agency recognised that ―…..problems related to mining waste may be rated as second only to global warming and stratospheric ozone depletion in terms of ecological risk. The release to the environment of mining waste can result in profound, generally irreversible destruction of ecosystems.‖1
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Mike Vincent – Corporate Strategy expert
Mike assists large multi-national clients solve complex business problems. He has more than 15 years of experience in building and funding new businesses for clients.
Contact Mike at mivincent@deloitte.co.za
Visit the Deloitte Consulting website
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Filed under: Executive Leadership, acid mine drainage, Deloitte, environment, mining, mining waste, socioeconomic development, South Africa
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