Public Perception of the Socio-economic and Environmental Impact of Gold Mining in Buru Regency

Abstract

The existence of gold mining activities in Buru Regency has a positive and negative impact on socio-economic and environmental conditions in the community. This study used a survey method with 107 respondents. The selection of respondents used purposive sampling techniques. The analysis technique uses a likert scale to see people's perceptions of the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of gold mining activities. The results showed that the community quite agreed with the existence of gold mining activities. This can be seen from the results of the data analysis obtained, where in the category of social impact perception, the total score is 1,099. That is, on the social impact of society as a whole argues in agreement. Further, in the category of economic impact, the number of scores is 1, 740. That is, on the economic impact of society as a whole argues in the agreement. In this category of environmental impact perception, a score of 1,124 was obtained. That is, on the overall environmental impact the community argues disapproval. The policy implication of the results of this study is that the management of gold mining in Buru Regency must minimize negative externalities that occur and carry out programs to strengthen the local economy, and in the long term also reclaim the former mining area.