CSIRO survey shows rising trust in mining industry

Public trust in the mining industry is on the uptick according to the results of a national survey led by the CSIRO. However almost a third of the 6400-strong survey group believe Australia should reduce mining activity, even if it delays the transition to net zero emissions. Conducted in collaboration with Voconiq, the latest survey marks the third instalment in a decade-long program of research, providing an update to the national surveys conducted in 2014 and 2017. CSIRO Mineral Resources deputy director Louise Fisher said the 'Australian attitudes toward mining' report provided important insights into levels of trust and acceptance, governance and fairness, as well as perceived benefits and concerns surrounding the mining industry. “These insights are crucial for policymakers, industry leaders, and communities as they navigate the evolving social licence for mining operations, particularly in the context of the energy transition,” Dr Fisher said. Mean trust and acceptance scores, over time. Key findings from the survey revealed: Public trust in the mining industry has improved. When participants were asked to rate the extent to which they trust mining to act responsibly, the mean score was 3.1 in 2024. This is above the midpoint of the scale used and is an improvement on previous years. 73 per cent of respondents acknowledge that access to critical minerals is essential for achieving net zero emissions. 71 per cent agree that mining is important to the Australian way of life. 72 per cent believe mining will support Australia’s future prosperity. Despite strong support for mining, 61 per cent agree that mining has negative environmental impacts. 32 per cent of respondents believe Australia should reduce mining activity, even if it delays the transition to net zero emissions. Voconiq chief executive officer and co-founder Kieren Moffat said that the survey revealed a nuanced understanding among Australians: they support mining for the minerals essential to the energy transition but expect rigorous regulatory frameworks and responsible practices. “As Australia progresses towards net-zero emissions targets, the data indicate that while mining is recognised as necessary, community apprehensions about its impact must be addressed,” Dr Moffat said. “This research will help inform ongoing discussions about the future of mining in Australia, emphasising the importance of collaboration among the mining industry, regulators, and communities.” The Minerals Council of Australia welcomed the CSIRO report findings highlighting an encouraging improvement in public trust toward the industry. "The industry is taking proactive steps to support continual improvement in its environmental and social performance with initiatives such as the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) program, which enhances transparency and strengthens community engagement across the sector," chief executive office Tania Constable said. "The MCA recognises the need to continue building trust and engaging transparently with communities. "Australians understand the essential role of mining in driving the energy transition, and there is a shared commitment to deepen our partnerships with communities to ensure this transition is both responsible and inclusive." View the full report HERE. You may also like: https://industryqld.com.au/survey-shows-coal-support-holding-strong-in-community/

CSIRO survey shows rising trust in mining industry

Industry Queensland

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