Applying grey clustering and Shannon entropy to assess social impact from lithium mining project

Abstract

The social aspect has become a key factor in the viability of mining projects in Latin America, and Peru is no exception. In this work, we implemented a methodology called the Integration of the grey clustering and entropy-weight method (IGCEW) which aims to determine social impact and assess potential environmental conflicts. The case study examined a mining project in southern Peru where four stakeholder groups and seven criteria were identified. The results revealed that for the local government and business groups, the project would have a positive and normal social impact, respectively. While for the community authorities and alpaca herders groups, the impact would be negative. In addition, it was also determined that the criterion most likely to generate environmental conflicts was Employment rate. These findings could help the central and regional government of Peru to seek appropriate measures to prevent environmental conflicts during the implementation of the mining project.