Canadian Mines, Global Issues: An Examination of Policy Context and the Social, Health, and Environmental Effects of Canadian Mining in Three Focal Communities in Brazil, the Kyrgyz Republic, and the Philippines

Canada hosts over half of the world’s mining companies, active in over 100 countries. At present, no Canadian laws can compel Canadian companies working abroad to ensure they follow sustainable and ethical mining standards. The goal of this project is to analyze the effects of Canadian transnational mining practices on local communities through a comparative case study in three countries (Brazil, Kyrgyz Republic, Philippines) to inform policies and practices that will mitigate environmental, health, and social harms. Using a community-engaged approach and intersectional lens, and building from the community consultations we conducted in July-August 2023, we explore 1) the impact of the mine on the physical, social, and environmental health and well-being of communities and 2) the role that local, national, transnational policies, politics, corporate practices, and trade agreements play in these issues. Our results can help improve mining practices and policies moving forward and strengthen governance mechanisms to improve the health and wellbeing of communities and the environment.