The impact of mine closures and unrehabilitated mines on the surrounding Klerksdorp communities

Abstract

The closure of mines and the prevalence of unrehabilitated mining sites have significant environmental, economic, and social repercussions for host communities. This study investigates the impacts of mine closures and unrehabilitated mines on the Klerksdorp communities, focusing on environmental hazards, socioeconomic challenges, policy shortcomings, and potential pathways for sustainable development. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with diverse stakeholders, including local residents, community leaders, and mining representatives, to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of affected populations. The findings highlight severe environmental degradation, characterised by water pollution, air quality deterioration, and loss of arable land. These hazards have adversely affected health outcomes, agricultural productivity, and access to clean water, disproportionately affecting marginalised communities near mining sites. Economically, mine closures have exacerbated unemployment, reduced household incomes, and destabilised local businesses, intensifying poverty in already vulnerable areas. Despite South Africa's comprehensive policy framework, enforcement and accountability remain inadequate, with rehabilitation measures often limited to superficial interventions. To address these challenges, the study recommends strengthening policy enforcement through an independent regulatory body, establishing mandatory rehabilitation funds, and aligning mining practices with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Community engagement emerged as a critical component, advocating for inclusive decision-making and leveraging local labour in rehabilitation projects. Furthermore, investment in alternative livelihoods and sustainable industries is essential to revitalise the local economy. The study also identifies significant gaps, including the lack of quantitative environmental data, limited geographic scope, and insufficient analysis of stakeholder dynamics, which constrain the generalisability of findings. Future research should adopt a mixed-methods approach, expand to other mining regions, and evaluate innovative rehabilitation technologies. This research underscores the urgent need for collaborative, sustainable strategies to mitigate the adverse impacts of mine closures and unrehabilitated sites, promoting resilience and equity in affected communities.