A Social Licence to Operate (SLO) is granted by local communities and requires companies to build trust, demonstrate respect, and contribute to social development. Mining companies that align operations with community interests and sustainable development goals can create lasting positive impacts. Earning an SLO is essential for long-term success and responsible mining(Winspear, 2018).
Investor and public scrutiny around mining’s social impact is rising, with civil society and activists holding companies increasingly accountable, especially in resource-rich regions. Governments across sub-Saharan Africa are shifting expectations toward broader economic integration and infrastructure development. Traditional approaches like community funds often fall short due to poor planning and governance. To build lasting impact, mining companies must adopt a bolder vision of social value and actively engage with broader societal challenges(From Licence to Operate to Social Impact, 2025).
Public concern over the environmental and social impacts of mining is widespread, often leading to local opposition. Gaining a Social Licence to Operate (SLO) is essential for mining projects, as it reflects community trust and approval not just regulatory compliance. An SLO is built through ongoing engagement, accountability, and commitment to social responsibility. Without it, conflicts between companies and communities are likely to emerge(“What Does a Social Licence to Operate Mean in Mining?,” 2021).
What’s one key strategy you’ve seen successfully used to earn a community’s acceptance and support for a mining project? Comment below!
References:
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From licence to operate to social impact: What “good mining” looks like is evolving. (2025, August 29). https://www.controlrisks.com/our-thinking/insights/from-licence-to-operate-to-social-impact?utm_referrer=https://www.perplexity.ai
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What does a social licence to operate mean in mining? (2021, June 10). National Audit Office of Finland. https://www.vtv.fi/en/blog/what-does-a-social-licence-to-operate-mean-in-mining/
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Winspear, N. J. (2018). What a social license to operate means for global mining companies. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/31075
