This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the impacts both positive and negative that mining may have on society. International perspective and treaties; sustainable development; corporate responsibility; legislative and regulatory framework; environmental impact assessment; environmental management systems, ISO 14001; corporate reporting; code for environmental management; environmental auditing; risk management; best practice environmental management techniques - exploration; waste disposal; tailings; quarries; water management; air pollution; rehabilitation and mine closure; social impact.

On completion of this course the student should be able to demonstrate a sound working knowledge of the legal and political context; company-based initiatives in environmental management; and state of the art techniques in environmental management on mine sites. They should also be able to describe the major issues associated with the social/community impacts of mining in Australia and internationally.