Guidelines for mining management in the social science dimension of industrial ceramic materials

Abstract

The study of guidelines for mining management in the social science dimension of industrial ceramic materials aimed to examine the following aspects: 1) The social impact of mining management, 2) the factors and criteria used to determine potential mining areas, and 3) guidelines for mining management in the social science dimension of industrial ceramic materials. The researchers conducted the social impact indicators by applying the framework of Mancini and Sala (2018) and Wattanachaiyingcharoen (2010). For the case study, two types of ceramic mineral resources were considered: feldspar and kaolin. Feldspar mining in Tak Province and kaolin mining in Lampang Province, Thailand showed the highest potential and were, therefore, chosen for the data collection and field study. A qualitative method with a focus group discussion and public hearing was used in this study to identify both the positive and negative social impacts resulting from industrial ceramic material operations, and ways to prevent and resolve the social impacts occurring within the respective areas. In addition, a quantitative method with a questionnaire survey was conducted in the potential areas to assess the level of the social impacts on local mineral management and public participation in social impact management. The results indicated that the main factors determining the areas where mining operations were previously conducted, included generating income for the community, increasing employment, development of labor skills, increased quality of life for the local people, and community participation in mining management. Guidelines for future mining management of industrial ceramic materials were identified as employment promotion, development of labor skills, and the provision of occupational health and safety for the workers. Collaborating with various network partners to manage social impacts would also be necessary to improve acceptance and understanding.