Sustainable development commonly refers to development strategies that attempt to optimize outcomes for economies, societies and environments.

While mining of virgin resources is inherently unsustainable, responsible production of mineral resources can contribute to sustainability or sustainable development. To do so, projects must lead to net positive impacts such as:

• long term conservation or improvement of environments
• preservation of cultures
• economic growth
• increased standard of living (e.g., via access to healthcare, infrastructure, etc.)
• support for individual/stakeholder autonomy, access to government
• minimized risks for worker health and safety