August 6, 2024
By Beth Borody
When we prioritize people and care for the wellbeing of the communities and individuals impacted by mining, we envision a different type of mining operation. Mining is rapidly increasing around the globe, despite permitting delays, due to the absolute need for metals and minerals to achieve the goals of the energy transition. We are seeing innovation happen, creativity fly, and new ways of mining happen. At the heart of every operation and company are the people who are impacted, employed, and providing services to the mine.
I fell in love with mining because I could see its potential to improve socio-economic conditions and provide opportunities for communities at a quicker rate than traditional aid or bilateral support. Such a wealthy industry has the opportunity to create radical change across the globe. Operating ethically and responsibly, with a people-first approach, should and will be how mines operate moving forward.
Deeply caring about those around us and listening to their needs and questions are critical for project success. Equal participation for all groups within communities—women, youth, differently-abled individuals—is important for understanding how the mine fits into community priorities, not how communities fit into mine priorities.
It’s about power and who holds it, and who makes the decisions. For centuries, it has been the mine and the owners who have held that power tightly. However, change is happening, and we are seeing different operations take innovative approaches to move away from a patriarchal approach and bring in a holistic and more feminist lens to community partnership.
As we move forward, let us embrace these new approaches and ensure that the wealth generated by mining is shared equitably, creating lasting positive impacts for all stakeholders involved. Together, we can transform the mining industry into a force for good, driving sustainable development and fostering inclusive growth for communities around the world.
About Beth Borody, CDI.D
Beth Borody is a sustainability leader and a mining executive. As part of her executive roles, she has led the development and implementation of the company’s ESG strategy, policies, and practices. She also fostered strong relationships with stakeholders, communities, and regulators to advance the company’s social license and reputation. Beth’s strong understanding of ESG requirements are balanced with understanding company and industry risks and opportunities. Beth is focused on creating a more responsible and inclusive mining industry for all.
Beth is also the founder & CEO of Femina Collective, a social enterprise that empowers women in mining and related sectors through mentorship, networking, and advocacy. She was recognized as one of the Globe and Mail’s top 50 Changemakers in Canada for 2021, for her work in pushing the boundaries for mining to be more diverse and inclusive. Beth is passionate about feminism, Indigenous rights, and climate crisis action, and has worked extensively in Sub-Saharan Africa and North America, bridging worldviews and creating impactful strategies around sustainability and ESG.
