In other word, I don't really know what to expect, nor do the people living downstream from the mine. But experience suggests caution. Regardless, Ok Tedi must put a mine closure plan on the table that commits financial resources to rehabilitation. On the whole, life expectancy in Papua New Guinea has increased since independence in 1975. In the area where I work, improved transportation networks provide greater access to health care.
People have more economic opportunities, more options and greater mobility than in the past.
On the other hand, people living downstream from the mine have to cope with a radically degraded environment and uncertain health risks. Whatever benefits the mine has brought to the region have certainly been compromised by the negative consequences of pollution. The government of Papua New Guinea has benefited in terms of taxes paid and other revenues. The mine has a very good training program and many of its employees have found opportunities for work elsewhere. Yet BHP's policies at Ok Tedi have caused their reputation to suffer enormously.