@misc{9248734,
  abstract     = {{The demand for rare earth elements (REE) has increased with the growing need for technologies used in renewable energy. At the same time, the establishment of mining projects can generate conflicts between economic and technological interests and local environmental values. This study focuses on the proposed mining project at Norra Kärr in Jönköping County, one of the most significant potential deposits of rare earth elements in Sweden. The aim of the study is to analyze how different actors justify their support for or opposition to a potential mine at Norra Kärr. Particular attention is given to how arguments related to the green transition and the need for critical raw materials are weighed against arguments concerning environmental protection and the preservation of natural and water environments. The study uses a qualitative research design combining semi-structured interviews with a document analysis of relevant public records and policy documents.
The results showed that different actors justify their positions on the mining issue based on different understandings of sustainability, environmental responsibility and societal benefit. Representatives from the mining company Greenna Minerals AB and other actors supporting the project emphasize the strategic importance of rare elements for the green transition as well as the importance of resource supply within Europe. In contrast, organizations opposing the mine, such as Naturskyddsföreningen Jönköping with Norra Kärrs Vänner and Lantbrukarnas Riksförbund, highlights risk related to impacts on biodiversity and the long-term environmental consequences on the lake Vättern if the water gets contaminated by the mine. Opponents also question whether the green transition can truly be considered sustainable, if it relies on further resource extraction that may create environmental problems elsewhere. The study contributes to an increased understanding of how conflicts around mining establishments are formulated and motivated by different actors with different positions regarding sustainability and the green transition.}},
  author       = {{Campbell, Isabella}},
  language     = {{swe}},
  note         = {{Student Paper}},
  title        = {{Nödvändig exploatering eller ett hot mot naturen? Aktörers syn på gruvan i Norra Kärr}},
  year         = {{2026}},
}