Gaps and limitations in public access to environmental information in mining licensing

Abstract

Industrial rocks and metallic minerals are vital to the global economy. However, mining activities can have significant environmental impacts. Public access to full, open, transparent, reliable and timely information on potential project impacts is essential to promote accountability and good governance. The main objective of this study is to examine the process and quality of public access to environmental information by the public authorities. To do so, we assess the case of a copper mining exploration in Galicia (NW Spain), a region known for its rich mineral resources. We do this by using a combination of telephone interviews and a 13-question survey as primary data collection methods, as well as analyzing information from documentary and regulatory sources. The findings of this study reveal that there is specific legislation in place to ensure the quality and level of accessibility of environmental information on mining exploration projects either through active dissemination or on request. However, the implementation of the regulation results in a low level of transparency and accessibility of mining information in Galicia. This article highlights the need for more effective and efficient administrative procedures to ensure that environmental information in the mining sector is systematically made available to the public.