The KEM programme began in June 2017 with the definition of the KEM Strategic Research Framework for the period 2017–2019. This document elaborated on the scope of the KEM programme and the mining risk management framework. 'Mining effects' is understood to refer to mining-induced hazards and risks. The types of hazards and risks, as well as the types of mining activities to be considered in the KEM programme, were specified. This has ever since formed the basis for selecting KEM research questions and projects.
All research questions from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and State Supervision of Mines, as well as those raised at Platform meetings by the public, were placed within a general risk management framework. The KEM programme began with the research agendas raised by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate and the State Supervision of Mines. Research questions and agendas raised by public platforms and at a meeting on subsurface issues in Groningen were also integrated into the 2017–2018 research agenda. Later, research questions raised by panel experts and public platforms were added. This integrated research agenda formed the basis for selecting KEM research questions and projects. In 2022, a more comprehensive mining hazard and risk assessment research and toolbox prioritised agenda was issued.
KEM projects typically run for between six months and two or three years in order to have an impact quickly. They are applied research projects. Some projects aim to consolidate knowledge in publicly available risk instruments. All project results will be made publicly available. Before being commissioned, all research questions are assessed by the KEM independent expert panel. The KEM scientific expert panel also evaluates the results and impact of each KEM project.