Local Experiences of Mining in Peru

This insightful exploration of mining development in Peru examines local experiences and societal transformations, presenting a nuanced view of its impacts on rural communities.

The book Local Experiences of Mining in Peru employs a multi-method approach to delve into the local impacts of contemporary mining development in the Peruvian Andes. It seeks to uncover the transformations that rural societies undergo in this context, highlighting the complex interplay between economic growth and social change. Mining, while a significant driver of economic progress in resource-rich nations, also brings about a range of social, cultural, and environmental consequences that are often overlooked in existing literature.

Unlike many studies that primarily focus on conflict surrounding mining activities, Local Experiences of Mining in Peru takes a different stance by exploring the lived experiences of families near Rio Tinto's La Granja copper exploration project in Northern Peru. This region has seen substantial mining investment over the past 25 years, making it a crucial case study for understanding the broader implications of mining development. The book begins with a critical examination of theories related to the production of space and spatial mobility, which are essential for grasping the impacts of large-scale mining operations.

Subsequent chapters analyze the spatial transformations induced by mining, addressing four key axes: access to space, production, mobility, and representations of space. By incorporating diverse perspectives from local family heads, community leaders, company employees, and social scientists, the narrative constructed in this book challenges prevailing views on the social effects of mining and suggests significant implications for sustainable development practices in rural communities.