Borralha: Building the Future of Mining with the Community

Portugal cannot exploit its underground resources without listening to those who live above them

Luís Martins

Geologist with more than 40 years of experience, holding a degree from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon and a master’s degree in Economic Geology.

Published in Público on 4 May 2026.

Portugal has mineral resources of strategic value beneath its soil. In an international context marked by competition for critical raw materials, these resources are acquiring an importance that extends beyond the local, regional or national economy. They are linked to the energy transition, technological innovation, European autonomy, security and the country’s ability to participate in increasingly important value chains.

But the existence of this wealth is not enough. Turning Portugal’s mineral resources into development, employment, population retention and opportunities for inland regions requires trust, transparency and participation. Mining can no longer be treated solely as an economic or technical activity. Given the scale of its impacts, it demands a clear commitment between companies, institutions and communities.

That is why discussing mining in Portugal also means discussing credibility and building trust. A project may comply with the law, present technical studies and offer economic benefits. But it only gains real legitimacy when the community participates in the process and follows the decisions that affect its life, its territory and its future.

This is the context in which the Monitoring Committee and Social Observatory has been established at the Borralha Mine in Montalegre. The initiative, the first of its kind in Portugal, was proposed by Minerália, the company responsible for the project, in line with international best practices in community participation. The Committee was formally approved on 1 April and will operate independently and autonomously, bringing together local representatives, institutions, academia, farmers, residents and associations to monitor every stage of mining activity on an ongoing basis.

The creation of this body changes the traditional relationship between mining and the local area. The community will not simply be informed after decisions have been made. It now has its own forum, with autonomy, the ability to monitor developments and an ongoing opportunity to question, propose and participate. Modern mining rests precisely on this principle.

Complying with the law and presenting robust technical studies is essential, but more is needed. Today’s expectations are broader, and the industry must adapt to changing times. Public scrutiny, the protection of water, wildlife, plant life and public health, the preservation of local ways of life, clear communication and a commitment to tangible benefits for the region must be non-negotiable principles. Responsible mining must demonstrate over time that it creates shared value and does not treat the community as a factor external to the project.

The Borralha Mine is following this path by establishing formal structures for dialogue. When clear channels for participation are absent, there is more room for suspicion, anxiety and confrontational narratives. With continuous monitoring, the discussion becomes rational, rigorous, responsible and constructive.

The future of mining in Portugal is being shaped today, through technology and efficiency as well as the ability to create shared value. And that begins with the basic principle that decisions about a place must respect and listen to the people who live there.

This English translation was prepared by the Mina da Borralha team. In the event of any discrepancy, the original Portuguese text prevails.