313: revitalizing Zambia's copper mines

Tragedy struck Zambia today as the nation's President, Levy Mwanawasa, died in hospital in France at the age of 59, following a stroke several weeks ago. However, hope also emerged from Zambia today, as reported by the Inter Press Service. As outlined in today's linked article, after years of decline, Zambia's copper mines are being revitalized, bringing new jobs and boosting the local economy. This time around, however, the government is determined to share the benefits more evenly, with a new tax structure for the industry. The upgraded mines will also incorporate technologies that limit their CO2 emissions and cut pollution. A more sustainable mining sector would bring huge benefits to Zambia - and it would certainly leave the country better off than when Levy Mwanawasa took up the Presidency six years ago.