Analysing the Effectiveness of Environmental Risk Management Strategies in Mining Projects: A Case Study of Mopani Copper Mine Longhole Drilling Project

This study evaluated the effectiveness of environmental risk management strategies at Mopani Copper Mines by identifying the strategies used, assessing their effectiveness, examining their relationship with project performance, and identifying implementation challenges. A mixed-methods design was applied, combining quantitative surveys from 100 community respondents with qualitative interviews from 15 stakeholders, including environmental managers, engineers, and operational staff. This provided both statistical evidence and contextual insight into environmental practices at the mine.

Findings showed that Mopani employs several strategies, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), waste management systems, water and air pollution controls, hazardous chemical handling, and biodiversity conservation programs. Quantitative results indicated varying levels of effectiveness, with EIAs rated highest (Mean = 4.2), followed by hazardous chemical handling (Mean = 3.9) and waste management (Mean = 3.8). Biodiversity conservation was rated least effective (Mean = 3.4). This suggests that compliance-based measures are stronger than long-term ecological initiatives due to differences in resources, staffing, and monitoring capacity.

Pearson correlation analysis showed a positive and significant relationship between environmental management and project performance (r = 0.62, p < 0.05), meaning effective environmental practices enhance operational stability, safety, and stakeholder trust. Key limitations included financial constraints (65%), inadequate staff training (58%), operational pressures (55%), outdated monitoring equipment (48%), and regulatory gaps (30%). Qualitative data reinforced these findings, highlighting the need for stronger training, better oversight, and more proactive planning. Overall, the study concludes that although Mopani demonstrates strong environmental commitment, improvements are needed in funding, capacity building, biodiversity protection, and regulatory enforcement. The research provides practical and theoretical insights, showing that effective environmental management plays a vital role in improving project performance and promoting sustainable mining in Zambia.