NEWS & INSIGHTS

Mining is typically associated with deforestation due to land clearing, infrastructure development, settlement expansion, and pollution, particularly in tropical regions. However, an Earthtime GIS forest cover assessment using satellite imagery from 2008, 2012, and 2014–2015 revealed an unexpected increase in forest cover within a mining concession, from 84.6% to 86%, with the most notable gains occurring around the mine site. 

This trend may be attributed to reduced slash-and-burn agriculture linked to mining-related employment opportunities and restricted access within safety exclusion zones, which have enabled natural forest regeneration. Despite the overall net gain, localized forest loss was observed in the immediate vicinity of the mine, and continued pressures from agriculture, logging, and charcoal production pose ongoing threats to surrounding community and protected forests. 

These findings underscore the complex and context-specific relationship between mining and forest cover change. While mining is generally associated with deforestation, this case demonstrates that, under certain conditions, mining activities may coincide with forest recovery. Understanding these conditions can help policymakers and mining companies design targeted interventions that strengthen forest management and support more sustainable development outcomes.