This anthropocene1 era with its accompanying avarice has significantly contributed to the destruction of the ecological integrity of our planet. Mainstream neoliberal economics valorises economic growth and fosters the super exploitation of minerals, metals and nature by transnational corporations. Its associated policies severely undermine social and economic protection, with dire ramifications in many countries. Proponents of mining-for-development constantly evoke and legitimise Hardin’s tragedy of the commons – namely, that communal ownership of the commons leads to environmental degradation – despite evidence to the contrary and the obvious finite limits of nature.