Our chances of succeeding with the transformation rely on faster, more efficient, and more predictable permitting processes.
To reach our goals and continue mining iron ore in a sustainable way, we need environmental permits. Without these, we cannot continue our mining activities. It's therefore crucial for us to prioritise environmental sustainability in our operations.
LKAB welcomes high environmental requirements. It is a prerequisite for us to be able to operate in sensitive environments – and a competitive advantage when we sell our sustainable products on the world market. But today’s permit processes are often drawn out, unpredictable and inefficient. In order for us to be able to invest in new mines, facilities and technology, the tests must be faster without compromising environmental protection. Sweden needs a permit system that makes it possible to change.
We are currently working on four important permits that are crucial for our future and business.
If we are successful in obtaining these permits, we can ensure the profitability of LKAB for a long time, and help reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the value chain, equivalent to all of Sweden’s greenhouse gas emissions today. In addition, we can help secure Europe’s self-sufficiency of strategic metals such as rare earth elements and phosphorus for agriculture.
LKAB is an important supplier of iron ore products, and accounted for the majority of iron ore production in the EU in 2024.
Sweden’s permitting processes take an average of over 6–8 years for mining-related projects – compared to 1–2 years in Canada and Finland.
Each year of delay means that up to 40–50 million tons of potential climate savings for customers are not realized. This is LKAB’s own calculation for a full transition to carbon-free sponge iron.
The process for obtaining an environmental permit is detailed. It takes into account factors such as environmental impact, including land use, seismic activity and waste disposal. It also considers broader issues like economic and social sustainability. Read more about the consultation process.
We believe that permit processes can be faster and more efficient, while still being accurate and responsible.
