WWF criticizes the government’s approval of an iron mine in Gállok, Sweden

On 22 March 2022, the Swedish government approved Beowulf Mining company’s application for an iron ore mine in the Arctic region of Gállok, Sweden.

WWF condemns the Swedish government’s approval of Beowulf Mining company’s application for an iron ore mine in Gállok, Sweden. Climate change is already causing is already causing irreversible changes and uncertainty in the Arctic. We must safeguard the future of the Arctic, its nature, and Peoples from further damage through exploitation of its resources.

“Mining in the Arctic is sensitive, as it can negatively impact both people and ecosystems. Last year, we praised Sweden for their green recovery and green jobs initiatives in the Arctic. But the Gállok iron ore mine, which will jeopardize Sami livelihoods and reindeer migration routes, is truly concerning. This mine has the potential to destroy the surrounding nature and pollute water resources. This is not how WWF envisions opportunities for Arctic sustainable development,” says Jan Dusík, interim Director of WWF’s Arctic Programme.

“The government’s decision today on Gállok is detrimental to the region, short-sighted and risks devastating the reindeer’s migration routes and the environment…. It is unclear how the ore will be transported out, with increased emissions as a result. The area will suffer from permanent damage. All this risk for just 14 years of extraction. Who will be paying the price in the end?” says Gustaf Lind, Secretary General of WWF-Sweden.

WWF believes that the Gállokk mine will harm irreplaceable nature and reindeer migration routes. The mining facility is planned to cut through the Sami village of Jåhkågasska’s reindeer grazing areas, which is near the Laponia World Heritage Site. Increased heavy metal waste risks polluting the Lilla Lule river and bodies of water downstream. The dams in this region are at risk of leaking water with toxic residues out to the surrounding environment.
According to the Swedish Environmental Code, if several national interests collide, priority is given to what is best for the long-term management of land, water and the physical environment.

“The national interests for reindeer husbandry, nature conservation and outdoor recreation must be above the national interest in mineral extraction,” concludes Gustaf Lind.

For more information:

Andrea Norgren | Sr. Manager Communications, Arctic Programme | andrea.norgren@wwf.se