Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The Case of LKAB
摘要
This chapter is about SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and the mining company LKAB. SDG 11 addresses the challenges of urbanisation and aims to create cities and human settlements that are inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. It recognises the rapid growth of urban populations and the pressures these place on housing, infrastructure, the environment and social systems. The mining industry is one of the most energy-intensive and polluting industries globally, and mining industry professionals are facing significant challenges in transitioning to a circular economy. Raw mining materials are crucial for various industries, including renewable energy technologies, and demand for them is expected to increase. Major challenges include decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Integrating renewable energy sources presents opportunities to decarbonise operations, reduce risks and improve operating margins, potentially leading to local economic development and shared value creation. The use of renewable technologies can enhance competitiveness and community development (Igogo et al., 2021).