Empowering Communities for Sustainable Development
At Phu Bia Mining, we recognise that our success is intrinsically tied to the well-being of the communities where we operate. Our commitment to social development goes beyond mining precious metals; it extends to building long-term capacity and empowering communities to shape their own destinies.
Our Approach
Community-Centric Planning
Our community development plans are meticulously crafted in consultation with government authorities, community representatives, and informed by socio-economic surveys. By actively involving stakeholders, we ensure that our projects align with local needs, host countries’ development plans, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). This collaborative approach fosters a deeper understanding of the diverse priorities of indigenous and vulnerable peoples.
Responsible Management Systems
PanAust’s management systems adhere to the highest standards. Aligned with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards, our guidelines, tools, and mechanisms address social and environmental impacts. We believe that responsible mining practices are essential for sustainable development. Our Community Relations Teams serve as bridges between Phu Bia Mining and the communities we serve. We encourage open dialogue, allowing community members to discuss concerns, share insights, and participate in decision-making processes. Whether through face-to-face interactions or digital channels, we value community feedback.
Grievance Mechanisms
We take grievances seriously. If our activities inadvertently impact livelihoods, we activate compensation and mitigation schemes. Our complaint, grievance, and request mechanisms provide a transparent avenue for community members to voice their concerns and seek resolution.
Economic Contributions
Beyond mining, we contribute significantly to local economies. By creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and investing in infrastructure, we aim to uplift communities and foster sustainable growth.
Partnering for Success
Phu Bia Mining supports Laos in many ways, brining multiple socio-economic benefits. Along with many sustainable livelihood programs, Phu Bia Mining also sponsors Young Elephants Football Club as one of several sponsorship initiatives.
The Phu Bia Mining – Young Elephants Football club partnership began in early 2024. Young Elephants were founded in 2015 with the aim of giving exposure to footballers aged 16 to 19 years old and helping them launch their professional careers. Young Elephants are the current Lao League 1 Champions, the top league in Laos, retaining their title from the previous year. The Young Elephants men’s team represent Laos in both the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup and the ASEAN Club Championship Cup. The Young Elephants women’s team, also reigning champions of the Lao League competed in the AFC Women’s Champions League 2024/25.
The club also nurtures local Laos talent through its Under-19s and Under-16s teams.
Young Elephants play their home matches at the New Laos National Stadium. The 25,000-seat stadium is located 17 km from the centre of Vientiane.
You can follow the progress of all of the Young Elephants teams, here.
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