How sustainable is Botswana's base metal mining industry in the face ofthe recent closure of its only four base metal mining operations

摘要

Over the period from February 2015 to October, 2016, the four base metal mining operations in Botswana suspended their operations or closed due to persistent low nickel and copper prices. For instance, nickel prices over this period were in the approximate range of US$4.00/lb to US$5.00/lb which were about half of the prices seen in mid-2014 and they continue to be low. The closure of all the four base metal mines exposes the country to economic, socio-economic and environmental risk. This paper focusses on the economic, social and environmental risks that are likely to follow as a result ofthe suspension or closure of some ofthe country's base metal mines. The paper makes conclusions regarding the long term economic sustainability of the base metal mines and projects taking into account their reported cost competitiveness in the industry.