Extractive Industries

Global appetite for fossil fuel energy and other minerals is increasing exponentially. The rapid industrialization of countries like China and India means that demand will only increase. Yet mining and energy extraction are intensely intrusive, can be heavily polluting and adversely affect surrounding communities and the environment. Water resources are especially at risk.

Exploitation of minerals, oil and gas is attractive to poor country governments desperate for foreign exchange and interested to increase services to their people. This is a process fraught with opportunities for abuse, corruption and a waste of the natural resources that should serve as the patrimony of all citizens.

New and expanded exploration by the extractive sector – especially in Latin America, Africa and Asia – has led to protests and requests for help from adversely affected local communities, many of whom are indigenous. Many of these projects are negotiated between central governments and private corporations. At times, international development banks and agencies are involved.

The US Oblate JPIC office is in dialog with extractive sector corporations on issues related to free, prior and informed consent as well as the environmental and social impacts of their activities. Oblates in Bolivian mining areas are working with residents to monitor impacts and promote ecologically sustainable practices.

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