Exploration work and its footprint

Important results from the project

There is a need to study how the environment and surroundings are affected by exploration work. The goal of this study was therefore to gather the industry actors and academia to find ongoing as well as completed exploration projects where environmental footprints can be followed or retrospectively assessed in a scientific way. The purpose was also to gather information and consensus on studies to carry out, where and by whom to see if it is possible to gather sufficient data, actors and co-financing as a basis for a proposal to SIP SMI in autumn 2022 for a full-scale study.

Expected long term effects

RISE has functioned as an independent actor in identifying suitable localities for studies. A list of approximately 20 exploration sites was identified with appropriate representation regarding ore types, habitat types, phase of exploration (early stage to late stage) and geographical spread. The project has also resulted in the identification of suitable actors as participants and co-financiers for a large-scale project.The material has been used in a proposal for a full-scale research project to Swedish Mining Innovation.

Approach and implementation

Identification of exploration sites has been done through project meetings between RISE and the companies, mostly through digital means, but also through field visits to Zinkgruvan. A list of 40 exploration sites was identified. Finally, a list of 20 sites that were considered suitable for further studies regarding appropriate representation of ore type, habitat types and phase of exploration was compiled. Partners from companies, academia and governmental authorities for a full-scale project were identified. Results have been used for a proposal to Swedish Mining Innovation.