Social License for Closure—A Participatory Approach to the Management of the Mine Closure Process

The European Union’s climate policy and the assumptions of Green Deal require Poland to take decisive transition efforts. achievement neutrality is a challenge due special role coal in Polish economy. Closing mines abandoning greatest for local communities mining regions. This article presents example Wałbrzych, post-mining town, which has been experiencing accumulation negative consequences inadequately planned liquidation since 1990s. current activities companies face were also analyzed. gaps identified literature indicate need define new method managing processes, based on consideration key risks resulting from decommissioning, minimize social costs first place. In this regard, it helpful diagnose concerns stakeholders. aspects mine closures remain finding effective ways deal with them become crucial industry. prompted us propose an approach community involvement decommissioning processes introduction license closure (SLC). By engaging community, SLC gives voice, allowing accommodate individual needs regions ensure successful just transition. recognizes stakeholders their fears related mining. organizational framework stakeholder approval presented. analysis was Poland, country facing closing hard mines. Conclusions formulated basis case study complement existing research field licensing involving planning process accordance idea corporate responsibility.