Environmental Law in Mining Activities and Its Impact
Edy Lisdiyono

Faculty Of Law, UNTAG Semarang

Abstract

Mineral and coal mining activities are strategic sectors that contribute significantly to the national economy, but on the other hand, they have the potential to cause negative impacts on the environment. This paper examines the environmental legal framework that regulates mining activities in Indonesia and the impacts of its implementation. This paper uses a normative juridical method with a legislative approach, analyzing Law Number 32 of 2009 concerning Environmental Protection and Management and Law Number 3 of 2020 concerning Mineral and Coal Mining as the main legal instruments. The results of the study show that although regulations have stipulated the obligations of mining companies, such as environmental impact assessments, reclamation, and post-mining activities, implementation in the field still faces various obstacles. The impacts of mining activities include ecosystem damage, water and soil pollution, public health damage, water and soil pollution, public health disturbances, and social conflicts. The problem is further complicated by the prevalence of unlicensed mining practices, which have reached more than 2,700 locations in Indonesia. Environmental law enforcement in the mining sector requires strong coordination between the central and regional governments, the application of strict administrative and criminal sanctions, and continuous monitoring. This paper recommends the need to strengthen the monitoring system, licensing transparency, and community participation in mining management to maintain a balance between natural resource utilization and environmental preservation for future generations.

Keywords: Environmental law, mineral and coal mining, reclamation, sustainable development, law enforcement

Topic: Governance, Policy, and Education of Coastal Area