Environmental Impact of Ore Exploration (METYV)

Introduction

The potential environmental impacts of mineral exploration drillings have caused disputes between environmental organizations, exploration companies, and authorities. Exploration permits are often appealed to administrative courts, and through these appeals and responses, it has been observed that there is little researched information on the environmental impacts of exploration. In the appeals, the environmental impacts of mining exploration are often compared to those of mining operations.

The project’s goal is to produce impartial research data on the environmental impacts of exploration, with a particular focus on the environmental impacts of drilling. Specific questions the project aims to address include the impacts of drilling on groundwater, the environmental impacts of drilling chemicals, and the effects on biodiversity in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Additionally, the project will develop a concept for studying and assessing groundwater and water body impacts on multiple scales, conduct a database review of drilling additives, investigate the applicability of DNA-based methods in environmental impact assessment, and develop the use of story maps for publishing and presenting research data.

Partners: Finnish Environment Institute (Syke)

The coordinator of the project: GTK

Funding authority: North Ostrobothnia ELY center, Innovation and Skills in Finland 2021–2027 – EU regional and structural policy programme

Contact person: Antti Pasanen

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