Leave a lasting legacy for future generations in a collective book, and contribute to tree planting efforts for a sustainable future
Mining future is a global initiative focused on writing a collective book of apologies to future generations, with reflections on the mining industry, energy transition and environmental responsibility. By combining personal messages from around the world with a scientific perspective on sustainable mining practices, this project aims to reshape the mining sector while promoting ecological preservation and carbon footprint reduction. Through tree planting initiatives, we leave a lasting legacy and contribute to a better and more sustainable future.
Indonesia, August 2023
Born from a Volcano: How it All began
Hello, my name is Kawtar Ouatiki, and I am a mining engineer with a PhD in Geology. I have traveled a lot, not for work, but out of pure love of Nature. Along the way, I have seen majestic breathtaking scenes, from impressive volcanoes to endless oceans. But as a scientist, I have also witnessed the darker side: what we are leaving behind for future generations.
One morning, during my trip to Bali in August 2023, after I finally reached the top of a volcano (the picture on your left was taken just after the climb, and yes, the smile says: "I am ok!"), I looked out at the horizon and wondered: If someone from the future was standing here looking at me, do I feel proud or ashamed?
At that moment, on top of Batur Mountain, surrounded by steam and a few monkeys, the idea of this project was born: Writing a collective apology letter to the next generation in the form of a book.
The goal of this project is to build a bridge between the present and the future. Each of us will have a personal moment in the book, a space to leave a message to those who come after us, sharing reflexions, hopes, and yes, apologies, for the damage we have done to this planet.
When we say "sorry" for something wrong we have done, we often offer flowers as a gesture to express the sincerity and depth of our emotions. But flowers fade. Through this book, I hope we can come together to create something impactful. With enough support, this project could grow into an initiative to plant trees, leaving behind a living apology and a lasting hope for the future.
You can write your messages in any language ( down below), as every voice from every corner of the planet matters. I have chosen to share this project from its very first steps because I want you to feel connected to this journey, as this is not just my story, it is ours.
This book will not only share our personal messages, but it will also include a scientific approach. As someone working in the mining sector, I know there is much more to say about how we can reshape the future of the mining industry worldwide.
Your words, your Tree, your legacy
By writing a letter, you're not just sharing your message with future generations, you are planting trees. Each tree will be named after someone who contributed. We hope that this book will have the potential to help turn this vision into reality. Remember, this is our collective story!
E pur si muove : Et si nous agissions aujourd’hui avant d’attendre 3 siècles ?
Quotes from letters/ Extraits de lettres / مقتبسات من رسائل
Youssed Daafi (Top Mining Engineering Voice)
« Hi, my name is Youssef, I am 42 years old, and I am from Morocco. I hope the world I leave behind teaches you the value of balance—between progress and preservation. We made strides in technology and industry, but at times, we overlooked the Earth’s limits. My hope is that you can build on our advancements with more care and respect for the environment. We’ve learned valuable lessons, and I believe you’ll do better in protecting this planet. Together, the future can be brighter.»
Aferdita Haxhijaha Imeri (Advisor at International Foundation for Electoral Systems)
« I am Aferdita and I am 53 years old from North Macedonia. I deeply regret my participation in the fast fashion industry, knowing that my choices have contributed to harmful environmental practices, from excessive water usage to the pollution caused by toxic dyes and fabrics. I am truly sorry for supporting a system that exploits natural resources and creates massive textile waste, much of which ends up in landfills and oceans, damaging ecosystems.»