Abstract
Developing countries face significant challenges in balancing the economic benefits of mining with its socio-economic and environmental impacts, particularly during mine closures. These challenges are exacerbated by poverty, inequality, weak governance, and dependence on natural resources. This study investigated how mining companies in developing countries, including South Africa, can embed sustainable livelihoods into their strategies to foster long-term socio-economic resilience and environmental sustainability. South Africa’s mining history underscores these complexities, highlighting the far-reaching effects of mine closures on vulnerable communities. Through a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed articles (2019–2024) and guided by the population, intervention, comparison, outcome, and context (PICOC) framework, this research explored socio-economic initiatives embedded in mining business strategies. The analysis employed the sustainable livelihoods framework, Stakeholder Theory, and Waring’s Theory of Sustainability to examine practices in diverse developing country contexts.
Findings revealed that corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, in alignment with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remain constrained by accountability gaps, insufficient stakeholder engagement, and inadequate planning. A holistic approach encompassing proactive planning, transparent communication, and rigorous impact assessments is essential for integrating sustainable livelihoods into mining operations. This study advanced academic discourse by identifying critical factors that hinder or facilitate sustainable practices across developing countries and offers actionable recommendations for mining companies, policymakers, and communities. By addressing key gaps and identifying key areas for further research to address the identified gaps in the existing literature, this research study has provided a roadmap for embedding sustainable livelihoods. This study contributes to reshaping industry norms and promoting long-term socioeconomic and environmental sustainability, by advocating for more equitable and transparent approaches to mining and mine closure.