As part of the RM SLO PLUS Hub activities, project partners NTUA (National Technical University of Athens) and PASECO organized an online focus group aimed at supporting the proactive management of Social License to Operate (SLO) in the raw materials sector.

The session brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including industry representatives, institutional and regulatory authorities, scientific and research organizations, as well as technical and ESG consultants.

Participants addressed key challenges related to building social trust in Greece, particularly in contexts affected by past environmental failures and a legacy of insufficient consultation practices. The discussion emphasized the need for methodological improvements in both regulatory frameworks and public consultation processes.

Several strategic directions were identified, including the importance of proactive and transparent engagement, the implementation of high-standard environmental practices and restoration measures, and the establishment of clear spatial planning mechanisms to reduce land-use conflicts. Participants also highlighted the role of transparent environmental monitoring systems, involving independent third-party bodies, as a means to validate data and rebuild trust.

A central conclusion of the focus group was the need to redefine relationships with local communities, recognizing them as essential partners rather than passive recipients of technical information. In addition, participants assessed local and regional educational and consultancy needs to support long-term capacity building for effective SLO management.