David Bursey comments in Mining Magazine on how mine closure has come a long way in the last 20 years, with miners finding more sustainable, environmental and community-friendly ways to cap off mining activities at their sites.

There are reasons to be hopeful about the future of mine closure, Bennett Jones partner David Bursey says from Vancouver. "There's always work to be done, but there has been an acceptance among progressive mining companies trying to establish clear and progressive policies that respond to these rising social expectations."

Companies are aware that they "need to be seen to be transparent about how they approach business and follow best practices", he says. "The world is always watching."