Evaluation of Socioeconomic Dynamics and Their Impact on Life Expectancy in Coal Mining Communities in Colombia

Abstract

The study evaluates the socioeconomic dynamics and their impact on life expectancy in coal mining communities in Colombia, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), assessing the relationship between production, occupation, accident rates, mortality and royalties. Univariate, bivariate, path analysis and ARIMA models were used to identify patterns and projections. The results show a positive constraint between coal production and royalties, which is negative with the occupation, accident, and mortality rates. Despite the revenues generated, no improvements in the quality of life of mining communities are observed; the poor use of royalties reflects a lack of effective strategies to convert mining revenues into sustainable enhancements for local communities. It highlights the rush for more effective public policies to ensure that economic benefits are aligned with improvements in communities’ health, safety and quality of life. In the future, greater alignment with the SDGs, particularly SDG 3 (Health and Well-being) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), will depend on a sustainable approach that prioritises investment in social infrastructure and the equitable distribution of resources derived from mining, thereby addressing current disparities.