This Wednesday, 26th November, continues our season of diverse talks with something a little different. Deirdre Lewis, who works with a geological consultancy firm, will be discussing the what it takes for geological enterprises to actually get to the stage where they can mine/drill/frack [yes, the 'F' word is here]. This talk will be of great interest to anyone concerned with practical economic geological activity - something on which we, as a society, all heavily rely - and the many social and environmental issues that must be addressed to carry out such activity. Knowing Deirdre's interest in the subject, this talk should be very thought-provoking.
The talk will take place on Wednesday 26th November at 6:30 pm in the Geological Survey of Ireland. Tea and biccies will be available from 6:00 pm.
See you there!
ABSTRACT
Social Licence to Operate: the Challenge for the 21st Century: The Third Leg of the Stool (society = the third leg of the stool!)
Dr Deirdre Lewis, Technical Director, SLR Consulting The principles of sustainable development dictate that the economic, environmental and social concerns (the three-legged stool) of any project must be considered, and impacts mitigated, prior to and during development. However, until recently, the social aspects of project development, for mining, energy and infrastructural developments, have been the least considered and often only as a token gesture. In Ireland, we have increasingly seen over the past decade that a ‘social licence to operate’ in required to ensure that host communities accept developments that impact on their locality e.g. in Corrib Gas and hydraulic fracturing in Leitrim/ Fermanagh. This licence is not easy to win, and, where successful, takes considerable work to sustain. Deirdre Lewis will demonstrate how meaningful engagement with local communities and other stakeholders is a pre-requisite for mining and energy projects, presenting examples in which best (and worst!) practice can be demonstrated in winning a ‘social licence to operate’.