Sterilisation and safeguarding of mineral deposits in Britain

This paper gives a detailed account, from a British viewpoint, of the sterilisation of mineral deposits by development and of approaches that can be adopted to safeguard mineral resources in the long term. The ways in which mineral deposits can become sterilised are discussed along with an account of sterilisation trends. Policies on avoidance of sterilisation and safeguarding are traced from their origins through to the present day. Central and local government roles are examined along with responsibilities of those in the mineral industry.Following policy approaches there is consideration of how widely policies have been implemented in practive and how far these approaches to implementation match the aims on safeguarding. Emphasis is placed upon mineral consultation areas and their definition and operation, though landbanks and prior extraction are also considered. Finally, discussion brings out some salient points which form the basis of some concluding recommended courses of action.