Information and communication technology and climate change adaptation: Evidence from selected mining companies in South Africa.

Bartholomew I Aleke,Godwell Nhamo

doi:10.4102/jamba.v8i3.250

Abstract

The mining sector is a significant contributor to the gross domestic product of many global economies. Given the increasing trends in climate-induced disasters and the growing desire to find lasting solutions, information and communication technology (ICT) has been introduced into the climate change adaptation mix. Climate change-induced extreme weather events such as flooding, drought, excessive fog, and cyclones have compounded the environmental challenges faced by the mining sector. This article presents the adoption of ICT innovation as part of the adaptation strategies towards reducing the mining sector’s vulnerability and exposure to climate change disaster risks. Document analysis and systematic literature review were adopted as the methodology. Findings from the study reflect how ICT intervention orchestrated changes in communication patterns which are tailored towards the reduction in climate change vulnerability and exposure. The research concludes with a proposition that ICT intervention must be part of the bigger and ongoing climate change adaptation agenda in the mining sector.

Highlights

Introduction and backgroundThe mining industry makes significant contributions to the gross domestic product (GDP) of many countries (Florini 2011)
The article poses the following research question: to what extent is information and communication technology (ICT) incorporated in addressing climate change (CC) adaptation by selected South African mining houses? In response to the research question, the primary objective of the study was spelt out as: to determine measures undertaken by selected South African mining houses in incorporating ICT in addressing and enhancing CC adaptation at different stages of the mining value chain
In reducing health or economic risk one would suggest that mines will transform their indigenous knowledge into digital electronic platforms such as electronic signposts, advertorials, pictures, and flyers for faster and easier information sharing

Summary

Introduction

Introduction and backgroundThe mining industry makes significant contributions to the gross domestic product (GDP) of many countries (Florini 2011). A snapshot on facts and figures shows that in 2011, the mining sector contributed 8.8% of the total GDP in South Africa. Against this backdrop, mining activities are seen as the source of livelihoods for many communities in such countries (Yun-Qiang & Hailui 2010). South Africa, to be precise, remains a cornucopia of mineral riches. It is the largest producer of chrome, manganese, and platinum (SANEDI 2013) and produces significant quantities of coal, gold, diamonds, and iron ore. Severe natural disasters affect and disrupt social and economic activities (Appiah & Osman 2014). The mining sector seems to be vulnerable to CC, and, needless to say, some activities in the mining sector itself, such as extraction and processing, contribute to global warming and CC

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Conclusion