Could you discuss the role that the mining industry can play in transitioning to a net zero emissions economy?

Mining will play a fundamental role in the transition to a net zero emissions economy, especially in the production of essential materials required for vehicle electrification, solar panels, and wind turbines. However, it is important to consider how these minerals are produced to avoid excessive carbon emissions. The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) is currently studying how the industry can supply the necessary metals and minerals required for the low carbon transition while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

Can you elaborate on the ICMM’s approach to ensuring the mining industry produces these materials with the lowest possible greenhouse gas emissions?

The ICMM is working on both sides of the equation, both examining how the mining industry can supply the necessary materials for the low carbon transition and analyzing how to do this with the fewest possible greenhouse emissions. Several mining companies have already successfully transitioned to using 100% renewable energy, such as Anglo American in some of their operations. The Escondida mine is also well on track to achieving 100% renewable energy.

What are the ICMM’s current priorities and initiatives?

The ICMM has several priorities and initiatives. One of their main priorities is to enable the global industry to adopt the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management. To this end, they have recently launched the Tailings Management Good Practice Guide, as well as the Conformance Protocols for the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management. Their ambitious goal is to find solutions that will significantly reduce or eliminate tailings in the first place.

The ICMM is also working on two other areas: their skills initiative, which is a 15-year plan to equip communities with the skills they need to thrive, regardless of what mining looks like in the future, and the Innovation for Cleaner, Safer Vehicles (ICSV) initiative, designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from mobile equipment on mine sites and reduce fatalities and injuries caused by mobile equipment.

Additionally, this year, the ICMM will work on issues related to climate change and biodiversity. By addressing these priorities and initiatives, the ICMM is taking important steps to ensure that the mining industry plays a crucial role in achieving a net zero emissions economy.