Adolescent health and well-being in the context of impact assessment of natural resource extraction projects: A scoping review

Abstract

BackgroundNatural resource extraction projects (NREPs) might impact the social, economic and health conditions of marginalised and/or vulnerable population groups, such as adolescents. While different types and forms of impact assessments (IAs) have the aspiration to place particular emphasis on potential project-related effects in vulnerable and/or marginalised groups, it remains unclear whether and to what extent health and well-being of adolescents have been considered in IA of NREPs. MethodologyWe conducted a scoping review of different sources, including peer-reviewed literature, IA reports, and existing focused IA guidelines to examine whether and how adolescent health and well-being have been addressed in IA of NREPs. We focussed on the peer-reviewed literature, IA reports and IA guidelines. ResultsOut of 5055 records identified in the peer-reviewed literature, 32 articles were included in the final analysis. Additionally, 25 IA reports from sub-Saharan African countries and six international IA guidelines were considered. We found that environmental determinants of health were the main feature addressed in peer-reviewed publications. Sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, were frequently reported health outcomes in NREP areas that affect adolescents. However, the complex interplay between environmental exposures, social status and risk behaviour of adolescents were rarely investigated. Only a few IA reports identified adolescents as a specific vulnerable and/or marginalised group. There was a paucity of specific tools and methodologies in IA guidelines that are tailored to adolescents. ConclusionThe development and use of specific guidance that provides a framework for IA practitioners to identify and mitigate health risks in NREP areas is an essential first step towards implementation and better inclusion of adolescents in current IA practice. This should be complemented by a broad research agenda aiming to expand the current narrow understanding of how NREPs affect the health and well-being of community subgroups, including adolescents.