How do Canadians view the mining sector?

Drawing on survey responses from 4,811 participants across all provinces and territories, the Social Acceptability Barometer: Canadian Mining Sector presents a nationally representative picture of public attitudes toward mining, its perceived benefits and impacts, and the factors that drive trust and acceptance.

Get the report summary Read our key findings

A mining site from an overhead perspective.

Purpose & Methodology

The Social Acceptability Barometer: Canadian Mining Sector (2025) provides an in-depth examination of how Canadians view the mining industry at a time of significant economic, environmental, and geopolitical change.

In collaboration with our Canadian partner Transfert Environnement et Société,
Voconiq collected more than 4800 responses, across every Canadian province, targeting multiple urban and regional demographics.

Learn how we conducted the most comprehensive study to-date of how Canadians perceive the mining sector.

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You are discussing an industry that needs EVERYONE on board to create regulations, transparency, and responsible execution for the positive benefit and future of this country.

The past has shown that mining companies have not kept their commitments, particularly when it comes to restoring the land to a suitable condition and in relation to their impact on water quality. Moreover, governments have stood by and failed to intervene to make sure companies obey the law.

I believe mining of critical minerals for domestic and allied uses could be a massive benefit to the Canadian economy, but it can't be at the expense of our beautiful country and its people.

Mining is the backbone of our economy. It needs to be expanded to extract valuable minerals for the globe.

Mining is the business of all members of a community.

6 Key Findings for Mining Industry Leaders

Recognized value balanced by measured trust.

Browse an overview of the key national findings from our research, or download a more comprehensive summary.

Read key findings Get the report summary

Study Partners

The study is a collaborative initiative between Voconiq and Transfert Environnement et Société.

Voconiq is a global data and technology company headquartered in Australia. Founded in 2019, Voconiq is built on more than a decade of research conducted by its founders within CSIRO, Australia's national science agency.

Learn more about Voconiq

Transfert is a certified B Corp consulting firm specializing in public participation and social acceptability. Through strategic and operational support, we help mining, industrial, renewable energy, waste management, and transportation sectors meet stakeholder expectations and foster genuine community support.

Learn more about Transfert

Voconiq CEO, Dr. Kieren Moffat will moderate "Citizen attitudes toward exploration and mining in Canada" at the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention on March 3rd from 1:30pm-2:30pm, with Marc-Olivier Fortin of Transfert presenting.

Join the session for vital insights into how Canadians view the role of mining in achieving Climate Goals.

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How do Canadians view the mining sector?

Purpose & Methodology

6 Key Findings for Mining Industry Leaders

Study Partners

Engagement Science Insights

Voconiq

Building Trust Through Participation

Transfert

Upcoming events

Voconiq & Transfert at PDAC in Toronto, March 3rd