A new report claims mining companies in Scotland are not engaging locals about their rare earth mineral plans, raising concerns over transparency and environmental impact.
Ellon: Mining companies are stirring up quite a fuss in Scotland. A recent report says they’re not keeping locals in the loop about their plans. Friends of the Earth Scotland is sounding the alarm. They claim these firms are failing to engage with communities while searching for precious metals.
These metals, like lithium and cobalt, are super important for green tech. But the eco group is worried. They say companies aren’t consulting residents properly in places like Aberdeenshire and Dumfries and Galloway. There’s a real fear about potential environmental damage.
Take Arthrath, near Ellon, for example. Aberdeen Minerals is doing surveys for nickel and copper there. But locals feel left out of the conversation. One resident said they don’t know what’s happening and thinks the council and government should step up.
In another spot, Blackcraig near Newton Stewart, JDH is exploring for various metals in a conservation area. A local shared their shock at suddenly seeing drilling rigs. It’s a tough pill to swallow when you care about your home.
Residents in Gairloch are feeling the same way. Canadian firm Galantas Gold is looking for metals in a huge area, but communication has been lacking. People are frustrated with the silence from policymakers too.
Tamsin Wake, the lead researcher, emphasized the need for a balance. The energy transition is crucial, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of local communities. Mining companies need to be upfront and get locals’ consent before moving forward.
Kim Pratt from Friends of the Earth Scotland echoed these sentiments. She pointed out that the same issues seen in other countries are happening in Scotland. It’s time to prioritize communities in energy plans and create safeguards against the harm of extraction.
In response, Aberdeen Minerals said they’re committed to engaging with communities meaningfully. The Scottish Government is also taking note of the report’s findings.
