Access to raw materials is of strategic importance to Europe's goal of achieving the Green Deal and becoming less dependent on foreign sources. Since then, an unprecedented hunt for raw material deposits has begun in Europe. Sweden is one of the countries with rich deposits of, among other things, iron, copper and graphite in the north of the country. Both Swedish and foreign companies are competing for concessions to develop new mines for these so-called critical raw materials. This is not without consequences for the local population, including Europe's last indigenous people, the Sámi. Those who still live from traditional reindeer herding are coming under real pressure from mining and climate change. The mines themselves, roads, transport and other infrastructure such as wind farms are disrupting the reindeer's natural routes and putting them under stress. Thawing and refreezing soils prevent the reindeer from finding their food.

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The costs for the Sami are increasing accordingly. Many are trying to generate additional income through tourism.

The Sámi tradition knows no boundaries; reindeer go where they find food. Today, the common good of nature has been privatised along with the diverse demands of various stakeholders. The so-called green energy transition has its price, it comes at the expense of cultural and living space.

 

This photo project looks at the inhabitants in and around Kiruna and how they are affected by new mines and wind farms.

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