Internalizing Environmental Management Systems in Small and Medium Scale Mining and
    Quarrying Operations

Mining operations have not been done responsively in the past due to the absence of environmental regulations. This has caused a tremendous impact on the industry's image and a setback on the industry's objectives of moving forward. The negative perspective that this created can be contained when all mining quarrying operations would have internalized environmental and social concerns in their operations.

Engaging and Establishing Environmental Management System (EMS) among small and Medium scale mining and quarrying companies towards ISO 14001 certification is one of the major support activities that can be provided by the Chamber of Mines to its members. Organized on September 25, 1975, the Chamber of Mines Currently has 60 members that include metallic, non-metallic and quarry operations, mineral processing companies, exploration companies and service providers. Being the premiere support and lobby group promoting the interest of the mining industry, the project is expected to enhance and strengthen the Chamber's capabilities in environmental protection activities and in promoting environmental management systems among its small and medium scale producing members. Towards this end and once EMS is in place, it will be easier for the Chamber to police its ranks and make certain that responsible mining is undertaken by the entire mining industry.

The primary goal of the project is to assist small and medium-scale member companies attain their production levels and at the same time contribute to the protection of the environment. This is in line with the government's policy of revitalizing the mining industry in order to reduce poverty particularly in the countryside. The Activity in itself addresses underlying social concerns as well as an information campaign on responsible mining as companies undergo the processes in internalizing EMS and in deciding later to be ISO 14001 certified.

While big mining and quarrying companies can easily afford to be ISO 14001 certified as in the case of PASAR, Philex Mining Corporation and most cement companies, a number of small and medium-scale operations are committed to do the same but are constrained by budgetary requirements. It is for this reason that this support project was conceptualized as a longer-term goal. As these companies invest in environmental protection measures, it will become easier for the mining industry to enhance its tarnished image and prove that responsible mining can be undertaken.

The Philippines' Medium-Term Development Plan (2001-2004) has indicated a 7 to 8% growth from the sector taking into account investments that have been made, planned expansion of existing operations, as well as investments in new projects. Following the decision of the Supreme Court upholding he constitutionally of the Mining Act of 1995, the thrust towards the development of the industry has become more pronounced. The government expects that in synergy with the expansion and operation of new projects are the social preparation that includes an internalized environmental management system and social development activities. These will help mining and quarrying operators the positive ones, reap the benefits of efficient and clean production, greater access to markets and credits and a renewed and robust industry.

The Chamber of Mines and its Environment Committee as a team shall engage C3R Consulting and independent Consultants to assist in guiding the team towards helping the small and medium scale operations towards EMS implementation and eventually, ISO 14001 certification. With the companies' commitments through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), it is expected that the work will be implemented smoothly.