What Does the Future of Mining Look Like?

IMII’s mission is to infuse the minerals industry with innovative solutions, reflecting our commitment to an exemplary future of mining.

Do you have any guesses about what the mines of tomorrow will look like? Let’s talk about some of the processes, technologies, and changes we’re seeing now that will inform the mines to come.

What does the future of mining look like?

First, here are the significant trends that will shape the minerals industry in the future:

The adoption of new technologies
Less energy consumption
Less water consumption
Improved remote operations
An even greater focus on sustainability

We’re already seeing minerals companies focus their efforts in these areas, dedicating time and resources to research & develop, trial, and adopt cutting-edge technologies and processes.

Energy and Water Reduction in Mining

An emphasis is being placed on reducing the resources required in mining processes to increase sustainability.

Here are some exciting water-related policies, wins, and technologies:

BHP employs a five-pillar water stewardship program: manage risk, value water, disclose performance, collective action, and learn and innovate. From FY2018 – FY2022, BHP successfully reduced their freshwater use by 29%!
Mosaic addresses water scarcity by monitoring water usage, emphasizing responsible use, and investing in water recycling and reuse. In addition, they support organizations that work in watershed restoration, habitat conservation, and nutrient stewardship.
Cameco has celebrated some big water reduction successes in previous years. Their water usage decreased 16% in 2023 compared to 2022, due in large part to a new closed-loop cooling system at their Port Hope facility.

As for energy reduction, mineral companies are taking a variety of approaches:

BHP is exploring replacing diesel with battery-electric equipment. This technology does not yet exist at the scale required, so they’re working with equipment manufacturers on its development.

Cameco has found success in implementing various upgraded processes, including focusing on energy efficiency, lighting upgrades (reducing 725 MWh/year), energy monitoring, vent on demand, on-site concrete production using waste rock, and upgraded heating systems.

It’s exciting to see minerals companies tackling sustainable resource use uniquely and effectively.

Enhancing Mining Safety and Efficiency

Mining processes are complex, therefore requiring an emphasis on worker safety and overall efficiency. As the global demand for minerals grows, mining companies must produce more output while prioritizing safety.

One concept is revolutionizing both worker safety and efficiency—remote operations centres (ROCs). At ROCs, workers can run mine operations from a safe, separate site above ground. This increases employee safety while improving efficiency.

Check out the BHP Perth mine or Nutrien’s Lanigan potash mine for more on remote operations!

Another win for mining efficiency is predictive maintenance, meaning machines get serviced regularly and mines can avoid the cost and downtime for repairs. And, of course, we can’t forget about AI, the tool transforming most industries. With AI, minerals companies can track data trends and adjust to improve operations.

Sustainable Technologies in Mining

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword in the minerals industry; it’s a serious commitment to protecting the health of our people and planet.

Here are some sustainable technologies, commitments and processes that will inform the future of mining:

BHP is taking a multi-level approach, tackling sustainability from six perspectives: decarbonization, responsible supply chains, thriving, empowered communities, a healthy environment, Indigenous partnerships, and a safe, inclusive, future-ready workforce. More about their approach and commitments here.
Fission Uranium is taking a “start early, be thorough” approach to sustainability, prioritizing reclamation in unused areas, underground mines planned with a minimal environmental footprint, and capturing drill cuttings to avoid contamination.
Mosaic is also approaching sustainability from many points of view, listing fourteen significant sustainability topics here.

The mines of tomorrow are being shaped today. As minerals companies embrace innovation and new processes and technologies, they are investing in a bright future for the entire industry.

Interested in staying updated on the future of mining? Keep tabs with us: https://www.imii.ca/.