The Sokli mining project opens new perspectives for the economy and the environment

In the first episode, we discuss the strategically important Sokli mining project. Why does Sokli spark so much discussion, what impacts does it have on the surrounding region and on Finland more broadly? How is the project assessed from economic, environmental and societal perspectives?

FMG’s CEO Matti Hietanen is joined by Sokli’s Project Director Pasi Heino and Community Liaison Manager Eeva-Maria Maijala.

Sokli: Valuable minerals from our own bedrock

Sokli is a geologically unique multimetal deposit located in Savukoski. Thanks to its rich range of raw materials and high concentrations, Sokli has the potential to become one of the most significant mining projects in Finland’s history.

“Sokli is an ancient volcano that erupted in Finland 360 million years ago. That’s how Sokli was formed,” explains Project Director Pasi Heino in the episode.

The raw materials to be extracted from Sokli are critically important for everyday life—and especially for selfsufficiency and security of supply.

“Phosphate is used as a raw material for fertilizers, and Sokli’s production could secure food supply for around 90 million people. Rare earth elements are widely used in electric motors, wind turbine generators and defence technologies. For example, an F35 fighter jet contains more than 400 kilograms of rare earth elements,” Heino notes.

Local concerns are taken into account

Savukoski is one of the most sparsely populated regions in Finland, and reindeer herding is a central livelihood and way of life. Naturally, the project also raises concerns among locals and issues are now addressed by newly appointed Community Liaison Manager Eeva-Maria Maijala.

“My most important role is to act as a messenger. I share information about Sokli with local residents and bring their concerns forward. I also work to translate the project’s complex language into something easier to understand,” Maijala says.

The Sokli mining area is located in a key reindeer herding region, and Sokli Oy is committed to fully compensating for any harm caused to reindeer herding. In addition, special attention has been paid to issues related to water systems, dust and radiation.

To meet information needs, Sokli will soon launch pilot operations in which the project’s environmental impacts and technical solutions will be tested on a small scale in Savukoski. This will provide realworld data on environmental effects, helping to prevent and minimise them.

Moving toward production step by step

Sokli’s operational life is estimated at more than 20 years, and the investment value is in the billions.

“We are currently preparing for the prefeasibility study, which we expect to last around three years. Our goal is to proceed to permitting in 2028. Based on current estimates, production could begin around 2035,” Heino says.

A vision of becoming a source of pride for Savukoski and all of Finland

The Sokli project would have a major positive impact on Savukoski’s economy and employment. The municipality’s tax revenue would multiply, and hundreds of jobs would be created.

“Our goal is to build a modern, futureoriented mine that both the local community and all of Finland can be proud of. I am fully committed to this together with Eeva-Maria,” Heino says.

The first episode of our podcast series Mineraalit ja miljardit is titled Economy, nature and the common good – Examining the Sokli mining project. Listen to the episode on FMG’s YouTube channel!

What did you think of the episode? We’re happy to hear your feedback and suggestions for future topics and guests.