Theresa Rodriguez-Moodie | If not bauxite, then what?

In almost every discussion about Jamaica’s bauxite-alumina industry, one question dominates: If not bauxite, then what? The question reflects a critical challenge that Jamaica must confront, as the industry, while significant to the economy for the past seven decades, now faces an inevitable decline for various reasons. With proven reserves estimated to last only 30 to 50 years, depending on production rates, the time to plan for a transition is now. Yet, remarkably little has been done to define what comes next.

Some might argue that 30 to 50 years is a long time, but it’s important to recognise that building and transforming an economy requires years of careful planning and preparation. Developing sustainable industries, diversifying economic opportunities, and preparing communities for change requires strategic foresight and collaboration. The longer we wait, the harder it will be to create a smooth and just transition for communities, workers, and Jamaica’s economy.

INDUSTRY’S IMPACT

The bauxite-alumina industry has brought both benefits and costs to Jamaica. For some communities, it has provided jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and occasional donations. These benefits, however, pale in comparison to the environmental and social costs it has imposed. Dust pollution, soil degradation, and the loss of arable land have undermined livelihoods, particularly in agriculture, which once sustained many rural communities.

The closure of bauxite operations could lead to further economic losses for mining-dependent communities. Given that the benefits of the industry have tended not to accrue in mining areas, however, some residents believe closure will have little economic impact on their lives.

A key concern by some community members is the limited range of skills developed through jobs in the bauxite-alumina industry, particularly for lower-paid, unskilled workers. While these roles may be relatively easy to transfer to other sectors, the industry’s impact on indirect employment — such as cookshops, taxi services, and trucking businesses — presents a greater challenge. These opportunities, which provide income for many community members, are tied to the industry’s operations and may be difficult to sustain if the sector declines.

Additionally, the inadequate rehabilitation of mined-out lands raises questions about how these areas can be repurposed for sustainable use. This insufficient rehabilitation often limits farming options, as the land’s thin soil cover can no longer support the growth of certain crops, such as certain ground provisions or large fruit trees.

GAP IN PLANNING: WHAT WE DON’T KNOW

While these realities are well documented, what remains glaringly absent is a comprehensive vision for a post-bauxite economy. The small-scale consultation study conducted by the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) in 2023 titled ‘Transitioning Away from the Bauxite-Alumina Industry in Jamaica: Community Consultation Report’ only scratched the surface, revealing many questions. For instance:

1. Has an honest assessment of the current benefits of the industry ever been done?

2. What industries can replace the economic contributions of bauxite? Are these industries equally, more, or less destructive to the environment? Will they positively impact human health and livelihoods?

3. How can mined-out lands be effectively rehabilitated for agriculture, housing, or other purposes?

4. How can we replace the social interventions provided by the bauxite industry to support communities and schools that currently rely on them?

5. What investments are needed to develop new industries, and how can we attract both domestic and foreign investment?

6. What skills will be needed for future industries, and how can workers be prepared to meet these demands?

7. How can we ensure sustainable and inclusive growth during the transition period?

8. What regulatory frameworks are necessary to guide and support this transition?

These are just some of the questions the Government of Jamaica should be asking now, to develop a comprehensive and strategic plan for moving away from the bauxite industry and towards a more diversified and sustainable economy. These are not questions that can be answered overnight, however, nor can they be addressed by any single stakeholder. They will require a coordinated effort involving the government, private sector, civil society, and local communities.

EXPLORING ALTERNATIVES: WHAT’S NEXT?

In JET’s small but indicative study, several alternatives have been suggested by those consulted, for diversifying Jamaica’s economy, including:

• Agriculture and agro-processing: Leveraging modern technologies to revitalise farming and introduce value-added processing.

• Eco-tourism: Developing nature-based tourism that aligns with global trends toward sustainability.

• Renewable energy: Investing in solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects that can provide long-term economic and environmental benefits.

• Knowledge economy: Building industries around education, technology, and creative sectors.

These ideas need a detailed evaluation of their feasibility, potential economic contribution, and the infrastructure and policies needed to support their growth if they are considered viable options.

PATH FORWARD

Jamaica has an opportunity to reimagine its economic future, one that is resilient, inclusive, environmentally sustainable and not dependent on extractive industries. To seize this opportunity, however, we must begin by asking the hard questions, filling the gaps in our knowledge, and committing to a long-term vision that prioritises the well-being of both people and the island itself.

Theresa Rodriguez-Moodie, PhD, is an environmental scientist and the CEO of the Jamaica Environment Trust. Send feedback to jamaicaenvironmenttrust@gmail.com and columns@gleanerjm.com