Canada’s first Social Acceptability Barometer for the mining sector shows strong national support for developing critical minerals, but the public expects tighter environmental oversight, better consultation and more transparent governance.

Released by Transfert Environnement et Société, in collaboration with Australian research firm Voconiq, the survey canvassed more than 4 800 Canadians across all provinces and territories. The findings come as the federal government commits C$2-billion over five years to a new Critical Minerals Sovereign Fund, announced in the November 4 Budget.

The study found that about 70% of respondents view critical minerals, such as lithium, nickel, copper and rare earths, as essential to Canada’s energy transition, and favour domestic production over imports. Support for gold also remains high at a national level, though respondents are more cautious about opening new gold mines in their local areas.

Despite broad recognition of mining’s role in employment, regional development and clean-energy supply chains, confidence in mining companies remains comparatively low. On a five-point scale, confidence averaged 2.76, well below the sector’s overall acceptability score of 3.48. Respondents cited concerns that companies prioritise profit and efficiency over community wellbeing.

Environmental expectations remain a key factor in social acceptability. About 70% of Canadians believe mining contributes to climate change, while nearly half expressed concern about water quality and site restoration. Respondents said clear commitments on biodiversity protection, rehabilitation and responsible operations were essential conditions for support.

The barometer also highlights uneven confidence in regulatory oversight. While most Canadians acknowledge a strong legal framework, views on enforcement vary widely, with higher confidence recorded in Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador, and lower levels in Quebec and the Yukon.

Procedural fairness emerged as one of the weakest areas. Only one in three respondents felt they had meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions about mining in their region. The report notes that perceptions of inadequate consultation undermine trust and threaten long-term project acceptability.

Indigenous respondents, particularly First Nations participants, reported comparatively higher levels of trust and acceptability, reflecting the influence of formal agreements such as impact benefit agreements. Still, 44% of the general population believe Indigenous Peoples do not yet have sufficient influence in mining decisions, underscoring the need for stronger Indigenous leadership in resource governance.