The use of non-renewable natural resources is the basis of our current society and global economy, and has been the foundation of our development and economic growth.
However, with the growing awareness of the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the need to use sustainable energy sources to counteract the effects of climate change, we are witnessing a major transition to cleaner and more sustainable energies.
How to move towards the energy transition?
In order to move towards the use of alternative energies, it is necessary to consider an integral approach that includes multiple variables involved in this process:
Development of alternative energies as an alternative to non-renewable natural resources
It involves investing in the development and implementation of alternative energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric and geothermal, which generate lower carbon emissions than fossil fuels.
Increased energy efficiency
Greater energy efficiency can reduce energy demand and thus the need for fossil fuels.
Investment in energy storage
The transition to alternative energies also requires investment in advanced energy storage technologies. This is essential to ensure a constant supply of energy in any environmental context.
Increase in mining activity
This considers the increased exploitation and use of minerals such as lithium and copper, among others, to generate, store and distribute energy.
The challenges of the energy transition for the extractive sector
Actions such as the increase in mining activity and the reduction of oil and coal mining activity have environmental, social and labor implications that these industries must foresee and manage in a strategic and, above all, fair manner.
How to do it? By taking into account measures such as those described below:
Greater corporate responsibility.
Given the need of mining companies to access new lands that may belong to peasant and indigenous communities, which implies the physical and economic displacement of people and communities.
Companies must assume a great commitment in the processes of consultation with consultation processes with indigenous peoples, resettlement, compensation and restitution of livelihoodsThe company must ensure that the impacts of the extraction of non-renewable natural resources are adequately managed.
Workforce transition management.
With massive job losses in the oil and coal mining industry, companies will need to consider relocating employees, training in new skills and managing potential downsizing in declining sectors.
The same applies to the automation of mining operations, which significantly reduce the need for labor, or the requirement for specialized or specific labor.
Investment in infrastructure.
The transition to cleaner energy sources involves investment in new infrastructure and technologies. This can be costly and require a long-term commitment, which can be a financial challenge for many companies.
Regulatory compliance.
This means that companies must comply with increasingly stringent regulations related to carbon emissions and sustainability. This may require significant changes in operations and meticulous monitoring of government regulations.
InSight Social's experience in community consultation and engagement
At InSight Social, we have faced the challenge of working in remote geographies and carrying out community consultation and participation processes in the context of the energy transition.
An outstanding example of our experience was the collaboration with Anglo American's Discovery and Geosciences area in Angola.
There, we created a social management system that included social and human rights risk analysis, procedures and plans adapted to local realities and international standards.
We also provided training to the social and environmental teams. This resulted in a successful implementation of the plans and a positive relationship with various communities in the development of exploration activities.
Do you need advice to face the challenges and impacts related to the energy transition?
InSight Social is prepared to help its clients take on the challenges of the energy transition, and carry out consultation and participation processes with communities and indigenous peoples for exploration activities in remote geographies, and with peoples from different backgrounds.
