Rethinking the Social License to Operate Concept

A new study published in Energy Strategy Reviews in May 2025 is reshaping how the Social License to Operate (SLO) is understood and applied across resource-based industries. Historically associated with mining and extractives, the concept of SLO is now being redefined through a proposed “flowsheet” model that outlines a structured process for achieving and maintaining community trust. The authors argue that in an era of energy transition and climate urgency, SLO must evolve from an informal community acceptance into a dynamic, traceable framework applicable to critical minerals, landfill mining, and even deep-sea extraction. This reframing is crucial as countries and companies face mounting pressure to extract new resources while preserving public legitimacy and social cohesion.