Ensure your company’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) policies align with corporate values and goals before fieldwork begins. Understand the legal requirements related to environmental, social engagement, and cultural heritage in the jurisdiction where your project is based. This will help you strategize, develop, and implement execution plans effectively.

ESG risks are interconnected. Conflicts with local communities can arise if they are not consulted before field teams enter their territory. Communities may fear threats to water sources or loss of access to cultural resources due to company activities, even when permits are already in place. It's crucial to address ESG risks comprehensively to avoid these issues.

Meeting international standards such as ICMM, IFC, GRI, and the Equator Principles is a requirement for most mining companies. Exploration teams often face challenges in understanding how these standards apply to field activities and stakeholder engagement. Aligning with these guidelines from the start can prevent compliance issues down the line.

Work with your team and cross-functional departments, including legal and land teams, to identify key stakeholders. Map their power and influence at each stage of the project, then develop engagement plans, grievance protocols, social investment strategies, local employment policies, and performance measurement systems.

Develop on-the-ground plans to avoid or minimize impacts on cultural resources by adhering to legal requirements and consulting with stakeholders. Ensure that field teams are trained in these guidelines.

Understanding legal requirements for surface disturbance and assessing project risks before field operations begin will help your team avoid potential problems later in the project lifecycle.