Identifying challenges facing reliable supply chains and ways to mitigate then for mining in the Baffin Bay region

Abstract

There are substantial economic opportunities in extracting minerals in the Arctic region. However, it has proven difficult for operators to ensure reliable supply chains (SCs) north of the Arctic Circle. This paper uses a case study approach to illustrate the challenges of SCs reliability for mining projects in the northern Baffin Bay and on Greenland, discussing the technological and organisational developments that can mitigate them. A bow-tie approach shows the challenges faced by the industry and the effect of mitigating initiatives. We conclude that increased traffic will require technological, organisational and infrastructure developments to manage SC hazards and increase SC reliability. The available protective and preventive barriers have focused on avoiding periods where hazards could impact SC reliability. However, this strategy is unsustainable in the long term as a viable strategy for mining operations. It exposes the operations to Arctic hazards that are difficult to mitigate when time is limited. The consequence is that SCs often lack access to effective Arctic hazard barriers, ensuring increased SC reliability.