Community supports mining of energy transition minerals: report

The CSIRO has released a report on findings from one of the largest national surveys examining Australian attitudes towards mining. Engaging over 6400 participants, the survey included a focus on critical and energy transition minerals to measure community sentiment regarding the mining industry’s role in renewable energy efforts.

The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy requires critical minerals such as lithium, silicon, high-purity alumina and rare earth elements.

Conducted in collaboration with Voconiq, this latest survey marks the third instalment in a decade-long program of research, providing an update to the national surveys conducted in 2014 and 2017.

Dr Louise Fisher, Science Director and Deputy Director of CSIRO Mineral Resources, said the report provides important insights into levels of trust and acceptance, governance and fairness, as well as perceived benefits and concerns surrounding the mining industry.

“These insights are crucial for policymakers, industry leaders, and communities as they navigate the evolving social licence for mining operations, particularly in the context of the energy transition,” Fisher said.

Key findings from the survey revealed:

• Public trust in the mining industry has improved.
• 73% of respondents acknowledge that access to critical minerals is essential for achieving net zero emissions.
• 71% agree that mining is important to the Australian way of life.
• 72% believe mining will support Australia’s future prosperity.
• Despite strong support for mining, 61% agree that mining has negative environmental impacts.
• 32% of respondents believe Australia should reduce mining activity, even if it delays the transition to net zero emissions.
• While the economic contribution of mining and its importance in supporting the energy transition are widely recognised, building trust, ensuring fair distribution of benefits, and actively engaging communities are key to maintaining the industry’s social license (only 52% of participants agree that mining communities receive a fair share of benefit).

Mining survey demographics. Credit: CSIRO. For a larger image click here.

Voconiq CEO and Co-Founder, Dr Kieren Moffat, said that the survey reveals a nuanced understanding among Australians: they support mining for the minerals essential to the energy transition but expect rigorous regulatory frameworks and responsible practices.

“As Australia progresses towards net-zero emissions targets, the data indicate that while mining is recognised as necessary, community apprehensions about its impact must be addressed,” Moffat said. “This research will help inform ongoing discussions about the future of mining in Australia, emphasising the importance of collaboration among the mining industry, regulators, and communities.”

The ‘Australian Attitudes Toward Mining 2024 Survey Report’ can be found here.

Top image credit: iStock.com/jasonbennee