Digging Deeper: Exploring Roads to Inclusive Development Through Mine Closure Policy and Practices in the Dominican Republic

Abstract: Mining operations have significant environmental and social impacts, including ecosystem fragmentation, biodiversity loss, pollution, and social issues such as low wages and unsafe working conditions. Despite these negative effects, mining plays a crucial role in the transition to low-carbon technologies and the demand for energy transition minerals is expected to surge. However, the potential perpetuation of extractivist models and the negative consequences for communities when new mines open pose a significant problem. Communities often become overly dependent on the mining industry, and when mining operations cease, they face socio-economic decline and environmental degradation. The central topic of this research is mine closure planning and execution, and how it considers socio-economic aspects that can hinder or stimulate inclusive development. The Dominican Republic is taken as a case study, considering its growing mining industry and conditions as a small island developing state. The study was guided by three research questions. The first question examines the socio-economic aspects of mine closure regulations in the Dominican Republic. The second question looks at the interactions between different actors and how they influence the implementation of regulations and practices of mine closure. The third question focuses on finding the particular nuances of how closure activities can lead to social and economic benefits, within the framework of inclusive development. The conceptual framework guiding the research is built on theory-driven policy evaluation and the theory of inclusive development. The research employs a qualitative research design, including the analysis of legal documents and semi-structured interviews with key informants. A two-variant case study, involving an operating and a closed mine, is conducted to explore strategies promoting economic diversification and reducing environmental impact. The main findings highlight the need for improved mine closure regulations that consider social aspects and coordination among government institutions. Community involvement and education are crucial for inclusive development while transforming governance into interactive governance can empower communities. Policy recommendations include establishing dedicated policy instruments, integrating with development policies, advancing inclusive development indicators, and guidelines for public investments, among others.