The role of social factors in feasibility decisions for complex orebodies: Exploring early exploration practices of the mining industry in Greenland

Mining companies have traditionally emphasized factors related to geology, metallurgy, logistics, and the economy when screening the attractiveness of greenfield projects. In recent years, however, there has been a development towards more social awareness and responsibility in the extractive industries, potentially allowing social impacts to play an increasing role in decision-making processes related to greenfield project development. This paper presents an investigation of greenfield screening processes in Greenland and how social factors are considered and influence decision-making. Based on a survey among the mining companies active in Greenland and qualitative interviews with industry and societal players, the study identified a list of factors considered when screening greenfields and found that the dominant focus is still predominantly on geological and mining technology factors. Social and environmental factors are also considered but are less decisive. The study further indicated systematic differences between junior and senior companies in the screening process. The study provides knowledge of the drivers and barriers for the inclusion of social impacts in screening practices which provides valuable knowledge for policy makers on how to create a regulatory push for especially junior companies that have the less extensive screening practices.