Rethinking the Coexistence of Industrial Mining Near Protected Areas: Human Concerns for Sustainable Development in the Arctic

摘要

This commentary was written as part of a travel symposium organized by the Calotte Academy between Finland, Russia, and Norway entitled “Resilience Related to Sustainable Development in Globalization” which occurred from the period of May 30 to June 5, 2016. The focus is in particular on environmental perspectives towards industrial mining and nature protection at community level. As the socio-economic and political systems of communities evolve in time and space through globalization, the challenge remains for humans to meet the needs of present without compromising the ability of future generations. One of the crucial examples in today’s world includes locating industrial mines near protected areas. In general, this raises concerns of endangering ecological landscapes and undermining human needs. However, there are possibilities for sustainable development to the immediate community. For instance, by means of employment in the mining sector incorporated with the establishment of sustainable environmental management schemes. Using a method approach of document review, a case study of Hannukainen mine near Pallas-Yllas National Park in Finnish Lapland is analyzed. This paper responds to the 2013 Environmental Impact Assessment report by Northland Mines Oy which planned to re-open mining operations in 2016 but faced resistance. Both problems and benefits posed by mining to the human and natural environment are highlighted including human reactions to such problems. It then concludes by proposing possible implications for sustainable development at community level.