Whether based in Europe or elsewhere, mining companies are under pressure to decarbonize. The reasons are well-documented: the mining and metals sector is responsible for around 4 to 7% of greenhouse gas emissions globally, and emissions seem to be growing.
How do industry executives feel about this transition?
For a recent report we surveyed over 400 mining experts around the world, of whom 75 were European mining executives. We uncovered common concerns, but also delved into the extra opportunities and benefits that decarbonization brings.
For example, some of the largest ore mines in Europe are managing to increase annual production and decrease OPEX per ton – all by upgrading conveyors to increase energy efficiency.
In general, the results of our report were promising – revealing a wealth of potential for growth and innovation within the sector. Let’s look at some of the key takeaways.
The role of technology
Electrification is central to mining's decarbonization efforts, and Europe is making progress.
Most European respondents, 83%, said vehicle electrification had the greatest potential to increase efficiency and sustainability of mining operations – a figure far higher than respondents from other regions.
This optimism is well-founded: Moving from diesel to electric power reduces emissions while cutting fuel costs, minimizing supply chain risks, and increasing truck speed.
That said, perceived barriers remain. 53% of European miners were concerned by the risk of disruption to operations and production, compared with only 43% of their North American counterparts.
Those worried about continuity can take inspiration from success stories. Boliden, for example, deployed the first fully battery-electric trolley truck system on an underground test track. The system increases productivity through 50% and reduces total cost per ton. Plus, tech partners Epiroc and ABB found a way to develop the system without disruption.
It’s all about the people
Shifting to new technologies takes specialized skill sets.
Our European respondents are well aware of this, with 44% saying that limited expertise and skills are a significant barrier to decarbonizing.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. While the skills gap remains a challenge, many of our respondents also see a bright side: the potential to attract fresh talent. In fact, 64% of those surveyed believe that innovation and tech adoption could be key to driving diversity and creating new opportunities, particularly for Gen Z.
A great example of this? Robotics can help remove workers from high-risk blasting zones, making the industry safer and more appealing to new talent. Boliden and LKAB have achieved this with ABB.
Collaboration is king
Decarbonization is a journey that cannot be travelled alone – particularly in the face of workforce shortages.
So, it’s unsurprising that 72% of our respondents emphasized the importance of expert integrators – or key technical suppliers – to guide the planning and implementation of new technologies.
These integrators can bring invaluable technical knowledge – as well as a deep understanding of mining – to find holistic solutions.
For example, a network of partners including Boliden, BHP, Komatsu, and ABB are innovating together. They’ve developed technology that saves time by automatically connecting electric trucks to ABB fast-charging infrastructure, using ABB robots.
Mining’s moment is here
From lithium and cobalt for batteries to rare earth metals for clean energy systems, the mining industry is essential for critical components of renewable energy technologies.
Given its strategic importance and the pressing demands of climate change, the time for mining to decarbonize is now. Europe’s mining sector can play a key role in decarbonization through electrification. But one question remains – will you be part of the transformation?
Are you ready to seize mining’s moment?
