President Donald Trump has expressed his belief that the US could eventually secure control of Greenland, emphasizing his persistent interest in the Arctic island, once citing "economic security" as a key reason. Although the autonomous Danish territory has adamantly stated that it is not for sale, its extensive and largely unexplored mineral resources are highly sought after.
As a motorboat navigates through challenging coastal waters and striking fjords at Greenland's southern tip, jagged grey peaks come into view. Eldur Olafsson, the CEO of mining company Amaroq Minerals, points out, "Those very high pointy mountains, it's basically a gold belt," as they disembark in a remote valley beneath Nalunaq mountain, where gold drilling is underway.
Amaroq is actively exploring the region for valuable minerals like copper, nickel, and rare earths across a vast expanse covered by exploration licenses. "We're looking for copper, nickel, and rare earths," affirms Olafsson, noting the potential for significant mineral deposits.
The mining operation includes a base camp accommodating a diverse workforce of over 100 individuals, including Greenlanders, Australians, and British former coal miners. The aim is to increase gold production by utilizing a newly constructed processing plant for refining ore into gold bars.
Olafsson emphasizes Greenland's immense mineral reserves and its potential to supply essential minerals to the Western world for years to come. Despite the territory being self-governing within Denmark, with control over its natural resources, the focus on Greenland's mineral wealth has intensified globally. Christina Kjeldsen, Director of Greenland's Business Association, highlights the geopolitical interest in the island due to its rare earth elements and other key metals, emphasizing the need to secure alternative mineral supplies beyond China's dominance in the market.
While mineral exploration in Greenland is expanding, the economic shift towards mining investment is gradual. The territory, heavily reliant on fishing and public sector revenue, aims to reduce its dependency on Danish subsidies through mining revenue, ultimately fostering economic independence.
The challenges of mining in Greenland, such as its remote location, harsh climate, and regulatory hurdles, have slowed the sector's growth, despite widespread community support. As Greenland balances economic diversification with environmental and social considerations, the future of its mining industry remains a complex and evolving landscape.