Society & Economy
If realized, an aluminum plant will have a great impact on both society and the economy - which is the goal of Greenland's commitment to this project. Our renewable natural resource, hydropower, can be used to create stable jobs and export, and thereby make a considerable contribution to the process of Greenland becoming a more self-sustaining economy.
For this to happen in the best possible manner with the greatest number of positive and fewest number of negative consequences, it is necessary to assess a number of conditions in our society and economy in relation to the development of the project and the political debate that surrounds it. It is already clear today that the project will result in a number of potential areas of profit. It is also clear that such profit will not generate itself, and will thus require initiative and effort. First and foremost, it is important that in the long term the workforce of Greenland will be able to handle all functions at the plant, as a result of which there will be a transfer of labor from less productive businesses and from the public sector.
In terms of education and training, there are already long-term initiatives in progress, for which success is crucial not only for this project, but also to a great extent for the general development of society and business in Greenland.
In such a major project it is important to assess the possibilities that the project may provide, but also to be aware of the risks and consequences that may be experienced as negative. A number of impact assessments and evaluations have already been initiated and completed, with particular focus on socioeconomics and the labor market. The next step will be an assessment of the possible regional consequences and options for political action in connection with greater mobilization of the workforce and their families towards growth businesses and growing cities.