abusesaffiliationarrow-downarrow-leftarrow-rightarrow-upattack-typeblueskyburgerchevron-downchevron-leftchevron-rightchevron-upClock iconclosedeletedevelopment-povertydiscriminationdollardownloademailenvironmentexternal-linkfacebookfilterflaggenderglobeglobegroupshealthC4067174-3DD9-4B9E-AD64-284FDAAE6338@1xinformation-outlineinformationinstagraminvestment-trade-globalisationissueslabourlanguagesShapeCombined Shapeline, chart, up, arrow, graphLinkedInlocationmap-pinminusnewsorganisationotheroverviewpluspreviewArtboard 185profilerefreshIconnewssearchsecurityPathStock downStock steadyStock uptagticktooltiptwitteruniversalitywebwhatsappxIcons / Social / YouTube

This page is not available in Burmese and is being displayed in English

Article

1 Oct 2023

Author:
European Environmental Bureau, Catapa

Study reveals the socio-environmental tensions of transition mineral extraction across global case studies

Shutterstock

"Sacrifice Zones for Sustainability, Green Extractivism and the Struggle for a Just Transition", October 2023

The study "Sacrifice Zones for Sustainability, Green Extractivism and the Struggle for a Just Transition" by the European Environmental Bureau and Catapa presents a comparative analysis of case studies focused on material extraction of minerals for the energy transition in  different regions, specifically highlighting Barroso in Portugal, alongside Finland, Sweden, and Bolivia. Each case illustrates the unique socio-environmental challenges and opportunities associated with mining activities, particularly in the context of the global transition to cleaner energy sources.

Barroso, Portugal

In Barroso, the proposed "Mina do Barroso" project has sparked significant debate among local communities. The region is characterized by its rich agricultural heritage and biodiversity, with a substantial portion of its land targeted for mining activities. The study reveals a divide among residents: some view mining as a potential economic boom that could create jobs, others express deep concerns about the environmental impacts and the threat to their traditional way of life. Moreover, the study highlights the conflicting dynamics between the company and the local community, with the latter allegedly disregarding the concerns from the community. The region's unique cultural practices, such as communal grazing systems, are at risk, raising questions about the sustainability of such economic pursuits.

Finland

In Finland, the case study explores the implications of mining for critical minerals necessary for the energy transition. The Finnish government has actively promoted mining as a means to secure resources for green technologies. However, this has led to tensions with indigenous communities, particularly the Sámi people, who rely on the land for traditional livelihoods. The study highlights the need for inclusive decision-making processes that respect indigenous rights and environmental protections.

Sweden

The Swedish case focuses on the balance between mining and environmental sustainability. Sweden has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable mining practices, emphasizing the importance of minimizing ecological footprints while meeting the demand for minerals. The study examines how Sweden's regulatory framework aims to integrate environmental considerations into mining operations, showcasing a model that other countries might emulate.

Bolivia

In Bolivia, the case study addresses the country's role as a significant player in the global supply of lithium, a key component in electric vehicle batteries. The Bolivian government has sought to leverage its lithium resources for economic development, but this has raised concerns about the environmental impacts of extraction and the rights of local communities. The study emphasizes the need for equitable resource management that benefits local populations while safeguarding the environment.

The full study can be accessed here.

Timeline

Privacy information

This site uses cookies and other web storage technologies. You can set your privacy choices below. Changes will take effect immediately.

For more information on our use of web storage, please refer to our Data Usage and Cookies Policy

Strictly necessary storage

ON
OFF

Necessary storage enables core site functionality. This site cannot function without it, so it can only be disabled by changing settings in your browser.

Analytics cookie

ON
OFF

When you access our website we use Google Analytics to collect information on your visit. Accepting this cookie will allow us to understand more details about your journey, and improve how we surface information. All analytics information is anonymous and we do not use it to identify you. Google provides a Google Analytics opt-out add on for all popular browsers.

Promotional cookies

ON
OFF

We share news and updates on business and human rights through third party platforms, including social media and search engines. These cookies help us to understand the performance of these promotions.

Your privacy choices for this site

This site uses cookies and other web storage technologies to enhance your experience beyond necessary core functionality.