The Philippines have set a standard for players in the
mining market. “After suspending 10 mines last month, Philippines have ordered
a suspension against 20 more mines for environmental violations. Other top
supplier of nickel ore have promised to pursue strict standards to maintain an
environmental balance,” says Vaikundarajan who has been at the helm of VV
Minerals, a leading sand beach mining company in India, for over 20 years.
The president of Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, assured
that the country could survive without a mining industry and achieving an
environmental balance was very necessary.
“18 of the 30 mines to be closed are nickel producers
that account for 55.5 percent of Philippines’ total nickel ore output.
Considering the numbers alone, this is a very bold move from the authorities
and sets a right example for others to follow,” explains Vaikundarajan.
VV Minerals has been in operation for two decades and
sets an example for leading players by adhering to environmental clearance in
and around their plants. The company has a dedicate cell to ensure the safety
of employees as well as environment. “Mining industry is big and important for
the GDP of our country. At the same time, we must not take environment for
granted. Without a healthy environment, we would not exist. A benchmark has
been set for all of us,” states Vaikundarajan.