(Photo from DOST-PCIEERD / MANILA BULLETIN)
In a statement issued by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Tuesday, May 18, it was confirmed that a total of five research projects stood out during the selection process conducted by the DOST- Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and UK Research & Innovation – Natural Environment Research Council (UKRI-NERC).
Out of the 18 proposals received online, these five projects are geared towards achieving sustainability in the minerals industry and charting a greener community.
First is the “SusNi or Developing a Sustainable pathway for the Philippine Nickel sector.” Spearheaded by Paul Lusty of British Geological Survey-UK and professor Romell Seronay from Caraga State University-Philippines, the project aims to assess the impacts of mining, explore novel techniques for mineral exploration, metal extraction and recovery, and environmental monitoring, all
NERC
Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology (DOST-PCIEERD).
The funding will enable scientists to develop partnerships and project teams across the UK and Philippines. They will work with stakeholders to understand the research needs essential to delivering a route to sustainable mineral production in the Philippines.
Further funding
A further grant of up to £1.2 million and 15 million Philippine Pesos will be available to two successful teams later this year.
The team will deliver three-year research programmes to:
understand the impact of mining practices
develop innovative approaches to the production of minerals that minimise negative impacts on the environment and the wellbeing of communities.