What Laws Govern Exploration?

Holding an exploration permit does not guarantee that a permit will be granted for a future mine. The environmental assessment for mining is one of the strictest and most comprehensive processes in Swedish legislation.

Laws during the exploration phase

An exploration permit regulates exactly what we are allowed to do in a specific area and is only valid for a limited period of time. The legislation gives us the right to explore the bedrock, but it also protects the interests of landowners, property owners and the environment during our temporary work.

• The Minerals Act (Minerallagen): Governs the right to exploration permits and the requirement for a formal work plan. It also regulates compensation to landowners and interested parties for damage and infringement.
• The Environmental Code (Miljöbalken): Contains the general rules of consideration that we must follow. It also governs exemptions (e.g. for off-road driving) and requirements for consultation with the County Administrative Board (Länsstyrelsen) for more extensive work.
• The Water Management Ordinance (EU Water Framework Directive): Ensures that exploration work, such as drilling, does not adversely affect the status of surface water or groundwater.
• The Cultural Environment Act (Kulturmiljölagen): Protects ancient monuments and cultural heritage so that no work damages historical heritage in the area.

The path to possible mining operations

The requirements for mining are considerably more extensive and the process often takes many years. For a mine to become a reality, it must be assessed under several laws, such as:

• The Minerals Act (mining concession): Requires proof that the deposit is economically viable and that the land is suitable for the purpose.
• The Environmental Code (environmental permit): The most comprehensive assessment. The company must obtain an environmental permit from the Land and Environment Court, which regulates everything from emissions and noise to waste management and final restoration.
• The Planning and Building Act (PBL): The municipality assesses land use through detailed plans or building permits for industrial facilities.