(7)The Concept of Social Capital and its Impact on the Development of Community Investments Initiatives

摘要

In the context of the discussion of substitution models of natural capital applied to the extractive industry, the development of social capital has received little attention, partly because there is no clarity about its meaning and practical significance. This paper takes care of this deficit based on the review of the concept, identifying its key components and proposing a form of operationalization. In times when there is growing dissatisfaction with the social and environmental impacts of mining, it is necessary to provide spaces for dialogue and collaboration to maximize the benefits of this economic activity. To do this, it is essential to enhance the social capital of communities as a vehicle for communication, partnership and building shared visions about the future of the territories. As a way to illustrate this process, the sewer construction project for the town of Michilla in the Region of Antofagasta is presented. Here converge various actors working in a coordinated and complementary way, so they get a synergistic and sustainable result that not only meets a specific need of the population, but also strengthens the bonds of trust between all involved.