Let’s go for the 91st Acfas congress, the largest multidisciplinary scientific gathering in the French-speaking world!
Our colleagues Cédric Bourgeois and Laurence Moreau were there today to share their expertise during a conference entitled: What social acceptability for mining projects in the energy transition?
In summary:
➡History repeats itself in the critical and strategic minerals (MCS) mining sector when it comes to the social acceptability of projects.
➡Certain initiators (those who make the headlines!) tend to underestimate the importance of genuine citizen participation, convinced that the energy transition justifies its exploitation.
➡Unlearned lessons: The MCS industry is struggling to learn from the mistakes of its predecessors. The same information and justification practices repeat themselves, perpetuating a cycle of conflicts and delays.
➡Same initial problem: The lack of open and transparent dialogue between mining companies and local communities is at the root of many conflicts. Local communities often feel ignored and left behind in the decision-making process.
➡Step back and act: This involves taking the time to truly understand community concerns, openly dialogue and commit to meaningful partnerships. By recognizing and integrating social factors from the outset, MCS projects can increase their chances of success and contribute to locally and globally responsible development in the long term.