Five organisations central to North West’s economy have come together to exploit opportunities in the mining industry while protecting land from waste contamination and air pollution which have a negative impact on the health of residents. North West Parks and Tourism Board, Heritage Park and three mining companies have signed an agreement to collaborate on a joint and consultative approach to mining in the Rustenburg area.

Beyond concerns about waste management and air pollution, there was also the issue that, although the region has great mining potential, miner s sometimes commenced activities on land that might be used for tourism and nature conservation, which are other key economic strengths of the region.

The three mining companies involved, Barricks, Boynton and Itireleng Bakgatla have singed an agreement which will result in affected communities being brought on board as regards mining and conservation in the region.