Any thing small is generally not given its due. The effects of Small Scale mining are
of much importance in developing economies. It is a viable route to sustainable
development, utilizing skills of
entrepreneurship, & focusing on human centered development. The book has, small scale mining as its central theme & covers major facets like policy issues, economies, environmental impacts etc. in developing economies. The problems of small-scale mining are highlighted, along with actions & initiatives required for, promoting the activities in this field. The experiences of experts in small scale mining in Afghanistan, Bhutan, Brazil, India, Indonesia, Malawi, Papua New Guinea, Philippines & Vietnam is being spread through the medium of this book. Small-scale mining has many facets, & is not just manual mining. In today’s scenario, it calls for a major initiative & support, so that this sector gets a new stimulus. The papers presented in an international conference have been edited, updated & presented in six sections in this book. An important feature of this book is, the list of nine broad conclusions that emerged from the deliberations of this conference. In the papers presented & compiled, emphasis has been given on data, photographs & tabular presentation. The various authors bring forward their knowledge & experience concerning this important subject. Taking an overall view, the editor has made a good contribution in bringing out this compilation of papers in the form of a book. It is considered that views expressed by authors from various countries & conclusions arrived at, will provide a new stimulus to activities in the field of small-scale mining.