Social License to Operate Mines: Issues of Situational Analysis and Process

摘要

Gaining a Social License to Operate has recently emerged as a critical success factor in mine development. This paper reviews its implications, particularly the challenge of how it can be integrated into the mine planning process. Results from a recent industry survey are presented as a background to issues. Important issues relate to process, timing and tools. The use of situational analysis, imported from experiences in commerce, is introduced as a means to reinforce the mine planning process at an early stage. It is seen to represent a foundation for the design of the process to acquire and maintain a Social License. Particular attention is given to two situational analysis tools, PEST and SWOT analyses, and their potential role in mine planning. The mechanism and application of these tools is reviewed.