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IMARC: Shaping mining’s most important discussions and driving innovation

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The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC), now in its 11th year, is seen by industry leaders as one of the world’s most important forums for shaping critical discussions and driving innovation across the global resources sector, event organisers say.

Michelle Ash, Vice President Growth at BHP, says IMARC has successfully positioned itself over the last decade as the premier platform where industry leaders, governments, innovators and stakeholders come together to address challenges and unlock new opportunities in the mining and resource sector.

Ash said: “I have attended IMARC every year since it started, because it is the best forum to understand what is happening in the mining industry and who is leading the pack. Whether you are part of a mining company, supplier, startup, government or just someone interested in the industry, you will find something for you.”

This sentiment is echoed by the Jake Klein, Executive Chairman of Evolution Mining, who says: “Over the past decade IMARC has facilitated an annual forum for important and thoughtful conversations about our industry and its future. This creates opportunities for shared learning and mutual success.”

IMARC’s role in shaping industry discussion

Since its inception, IMARC has framed critical conversations that influence the trajectory of the mining industry. By hosting thought leadership panels, keynote addresses and workshops with the most senior industry figures, IMARC has fostered in-depth dialogues on critical topics, including sustainability, digital transformation and future growth strategies. These discussions have not only set the tone for industry-wide initiatives but have also spurred meaningful partnerships and innovation across – and beyond – the sector.

IMARC Chief Operating Officer, Anita Richards, said: “Over the past 11 years, IMARC has been instrumental in bringing the global community together to discuss both immediate challenges and long-term goals. This event has provided a unique space for experts and leaders to share knowledge and collectively shape the future of the industry.”

Simon Troeth, Manager Government and Industry Affairs at Newmont, says: “IMARC helps Newmont connect with industry peers, stay abreast of the latest developments and hear from other global mining leaders on best practice and fresh perspectives. As the world’s largest gold miner and a substantial producer of copper and other metals, forums like IMARC create a larger arena for the contest of ideas so we can learn from each other and build a bigger and better picture of our operating environment.”

Kimberley Lim, Field Marketing, Mining Division at Hexagon and a long-time IMARC participant, says: “I have been involved in IMARC nearly from its inception and have seen its growth to become Australia’s leading industry event. The focus was clear from the outset: to become the platform for important industry discussion. The IMARC team is incredibly passionate about connecting key mining leaders, technology partners, and the broader mining ecosystem to work towards a sustainable mining future, both in terms of ESG and the continued longevity of the industry as a whole.”

Instrumental in achieving core business objectives

For many organisations, IMARC serves as a catalyst in driving core business objectives. From unveiling cutting-edge technology to forming international partnerships, companies have leveraged the conference to align their strategies with industry trends. As a result, many organisations have achieved significant progress in areas such as operational efficiency, sustainability, and workforce development.

Lim emphasises the unique dual role of IMARC in shaping the future of mining: “IMARC is a platform to share and learn from each other. When a conference like this brings in the heavy-hitters and industry thought-leaders into one place, we all benefit from the collective. Secondly, IMARC is well positioned as the leading technology conference for the mining industry, allowing us to collaborate with like-minded customers and partners who are instrumental in our technology development.”

Global leaders driving industry solutions

One of IMARC’s greatest strengths is its ability to bring together leading figures from not just mining, METS and finance, but other across the globe, including space exploration, AI and robotics. This access to world-leading experts has accelerated the identification and implementation of solutions to the mining sector’s most pressing challenges.

Troeth notes: “As the global mining industry moves to reduce its environmental impact, embrace new technologies and support local communities, IMARC continues to play a crucial role in showcasing best practice, challenging industry thinking and encouraging new perspectives. IMARC drives insightful conversations and valuable reflections on responsible mining and how mining can continue to meet the growing and changing needs of modern society.”

IMARC is also an important marketplace, with resource-rich countries using it to showcase their capabilities and opportunities to collaborate and invest. This is exemplified by Canada’s approach to IMARC, with John Williams, Trade Commissioner Mining Sector at Global Affairs Canada, saying the event is a valuable opportunity to showcase Canada’s attraction as an investment destination.

“IMARC allows us to present our solutions to make mining more efficient, sustainable, and smart on an international stage,” he said. “It attracts key investors by offering a competitive value proposition and showcases the role of leading mining nations in driving the future of the industry. IMARC’s global reach amplifies these opportunities, making it an essential event for those seeking to understand and invest in the next generation of mining advancements.”

As the industry pushes toward decarbonisation, IMARC has been an important forum for nations such as Canada to showcase how the mining sector benefits from competitive tax policies, free-trade agreements, and strong government support and accelerated the development and deployment of sustainable technologies.

Accelerating conversations on First Nations engagement and diversity

While the rights and roles of First Nations communities have become critical issues for the mining industry globally in recent years, IMARC has been championing these global challenges since its first meeting in Melbourne 11 years ago.

As the 2024 program shows, IMARC puts these important conversations around First Nations engagement and diversity in the workplace front and centre on the conference program. These discussions have not only highlighted the importance of inclusivity but have also accelerated the implementation of initiatives aimed at fostering stronger relationships with Indigenous communities around the world and, more broadly, promoting greater inclusion and diversity in the workforce.

CEO of the Australia-Latin America Business Council, Kim Prior, notes: “We are delighted with the way IMARC has consistently pushed for dialogue around First Nations engagement and diversity. The world can learn a lot from the policies and strategies put in place throughout Central America to help break the cycle of disadvantage with First Nations communities. By spotlighting these topics, the event has encouraged companies and government to adopt world-best practices that are more inclusive, respectful, and beneficial for all stakeholders.”

Lim says: “I am very aware there has been deliberate and considerable effort to improve the engagement and diversity of our First Nations stakeholder groups. This is reflected in the conference agenda and promotions on social media.”

As IMARC enters its second decade, it remains committed to driving positive change and shaping the future of the mining and resources industries. The conference continues to evolve, ensuring that the discussions, innovations and collaborations that take place today will lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the sector.

International Mining is a media sponsor of IMARC 2024, taking place on October 29-31, in Sydney, Australia

IMARC organisers predict most impactful event yet for 2024

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The 2024 International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) is set to be the largest and most impactful in its history, according to event organisers.

This year’s event will feature an expanded program, bringing together global experts, CEOs, ministers and delegates from over 120 countries. Held at the ICC Sydney on October 29-31, it will showcase the most extensive exhibition of cutting-edge equipment and technology all under one roof, they say. More than 600 speakers, over 9,000 delegates and 20,000 sq.m of exhibition space are the big numbers slated for the event.

In a recent statement, IMARC Chief Operating Officer, Anita Richards, announced that approximately half of the 200 confirmed speakers at the three-day event are women. This, she says, reflects IMARC’s unwavering commitment to Balance for Better, an initiative dedicated to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the mining sector.

“Balance for Better not only highlights the remarkable impact and achievements of women in mining but also underscores the strides being made toward gender balance and the broader benefits of diversity, equity and inclusion,” she said. “We are proud to feature over 150 women in financial, technical, operational and leadership roles, delivering technical presentations, investor insights and keynote addresses. This diversity truly mirrors the evolving landscape of the mining and resources industry.”

IMARC remains Australia’s premier event for leading mining and resource executives, government officials and METS companies, event organisers say.

Richards emphasised that IMARC 2024 will continue its tradition of uniting global industry leaders, innovators and policymakers to tackle critical issues and seize opportunities within the mining and resources sector. “But it is also an essential platform for business,” she added. “IMARC provides Australian OEMs and METS companies with unparalleled opportunities to connect with global supply chain decision-makers. This year, we are also focusing on empowering the next generation of executives responsible for making pivotal investment decisions for their companies.”

Exciting new features at IMARC 2024

The expanded IMARC 2024 program includes several new “co-located” events and streams which will tackle global challenges around the commercial, planning and environmental barriers that are inhibiting the industry’s ability to meet the historic demand for the resources the world needs for a cleaner future.

The event’s central showcase, the Plenary Theatre, is sponsored by Newmont and will be an agenda-setting platform, where major initiatives, products and collaborations are unveiled. Author and business leader, Holly Ransom will serve as the Plenary MC for this year’s event.

Highlights of the plenary sessions this year include:

  • Ministerial Addresses: Hon. Madeleine King MP, Australian Minister for Resources, and Hon. Courtney Houssos, NSW Minister for Finance, will deliver key government perspectives on the future of mining.
  • Strategic Partnerships and Innovations: Tania Constable, CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia, will discuss the importance of strategic partnerships and host a series of in-depth Executive Briefings featuring some of the industry’s most recognised global thought leaders;
  • A continued focus on ESG and sustainability: Executives from Newmont and Fortescue will share insights on achieving real zero through investments and innovations; and
  • Evolving boardroom discussions: Holly Ransom will moderate a keynote interview with industry leaders Jake Klein, Executive Chairman of Evolution Mining, and Leanne Heywood OAM, Non-Executive Director across a range of mining companies, on the top priorities for the sector.

The program

The conference program features sessions covering themes such as digital transformation, mining innovation, energy transition & decarbonisation, mine & project development, global opportunities and ESG collaboration.

The new Mine & Project Development stream will address accelerating project timelines and overcoming industry challenges like access to capital, mitigating project risk, delays and permitting hurdles. The Mining, Metals and the Circular Economy program will focus on the global context of circularity in the mining industry’s supply chain. Additionally, the Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE), will host the AROSE Mining & Space @ IMARC program, which will examine the intersection of space exploration and mining innovation, highlighting requirements, capabilities, and collaborations between these two industries.

Notable sessions and speakers include:

  • Digital Transformation: Mark O’Brien, General Manager – Digital Technology & Innovation (CIO) at CITIC Pacific Mining, will examine the myths and realities of AI in the mining industry;
  • Mining Innovation: Flavia Tata Nardini, CEO and Co-Founder of Fleet Space, will explore the potential of space and AI in end-to-end exploration;
  • Energy Transition & Decarbonisation: Sanjeev Gandhi, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Orica, will discuss how the company is managing their own energy transition while supporting its customers journey at the same time;
  • Global Opportunities: Dinah McLeod, Director General of the Cobalt Institute, will address global and Australian market drivers of cobalt; and
  • ESG Collaboration: Martijn Wilder AM, founder and CEO of Pollination and Chair of the National Reconstruction Fund, will discuss how mining can support a Nature Positive Future and how it should be measured.

Hosted annually by Beacon Events, IMARC convenes a distinguished group of speakers and industry experts, providing Australian companies with invaluable opportunities to network, showcase their products and services and drive business growth.

Electra Mining Africa: A 5-in-1 trade show

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This year’s Electra Mining Africa is set to be one of the biggest exhibitions to date with over 850 companies exhibiting across six exhibition halls and four sizeable outside exhibit areas, the organisers say.

Visitors will get to see the latest industry innovations with thousands of new products and technologies on show, and hundreds of live demonstrations showcasing machinery and equipment in action, at the Johannesburg, South Africa, event.

Taking place in Nasrec, from September 2-6, Electra Mining Africa is recognised as a ‘5-in-1 Trade Show’, the organisers say. The five incorporated shows – Electra Mining Africa, Automation Expo, Elenex Africa, POWERex, and Transport Expo – will put the spotlight on mining, manufacturing, engineering and related industries; automation, instrumentation, mechatronics and control; the electronics, electrical and electro-mechanical sectors; as well as power generation, power transmission and distribution, power application and renewable energy. The trucking, transport and logistics industries will also be highlighted. The Local Southern African Manufacturing Expo has also been incorporated for the first time with its focus on local manufacturing.

“Electra Mining Africa has built its reputation as a platform for trade; the place where buyers and sellers meet to do business. Deals are made and beneficial partnerships are formed,” Gary Corin, Managing Director of Specialised Exhibitions, organisers of Electra Mining Africa and a division of Montgomery Group, says. “It’s a massive trade event taking place over five days, contributing to the stimulation of trade in the industrial, manufacturing and mining sectors of the South African economy.”

Industry leaders from across the mining and industrial sectors of the economy will deliver a program of world-class, free-to-attend seminars at Electra Mining Africa, according to the organisers. Visitors can expect to hear from industry experts on the latest developments in the global and local mining and industrial sectors. The experts will discuss new developments in legislation, highlight challenges faced by the local industry, present case studies on proven results, and give local examples of leading technologies, solutions and methodologies. Seminar topics will also be aligned with the show’s theme days of sustainability, women’s day and skills development, safety and lifting, innovation and South Africa day. The seminars will take place in Hall 9, hosted by the South African Institute of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE).

The Lifting Equipment Engineering Association of SA (LEEASA) and the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM) will be hosting conferences alongside the show sharing valuable content. Charlene Hefer, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions, added: “We are also thrilled that Women in Mining South Africa (WiMSA) will be hosting a half-day women in mining workshop, taking place on Women’s Day and, participating for the first time, WiMBIZ, which represents five hundred female owned companies in the mining industry, will create a networking space where visitors and exhibitors can talk about business partnering opportunities. There will also be a hosted networking function to facilitate these conversations.”

Visitors can look out for the Forklift Driver competition, organised in conjunction with Lifting Africa and LEEASA, taking place on each day of the show. Winners of the Innovation and New Products Awards, organised in partnership with the South African Capital Equipment Export Council (SACEEC), will be announced to align with Innovation Day.

METS Ignited - IMARC 2022

Critical minerals discussion to continue at IMARC 2023

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The announcement by Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, to double the investment in the Critical Minerals Fund sets the scene for this year’s International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney, New South Wales, next week.

The A$4 billion ($2.5 billion) plan is aimed at expanding the production and processing of critical minerals in Australia to secure the country’s position as a global critical minerals powerhouse.

Albanese said Australia is in a strong position to help the global shift to net-zero due to its large deposits of critical minerals.

He said: “Australia is committed to building sustainable and secure critical minerals supply chains with the United States. This is central to building a clean energy future and delivering economic growth. The expansion of the Critical Minerals Facility will help to build supply chains with the United States and support our shared clean energy, manufacturing and defence ambitions.”

Minister for Resources of Australia, Madeleine King, said the road to net-zero runs through Australia’s resources sector.

“The Critical Minerals Facility is a cornerstone of support, providing finance to strategically significant projects which can crowd in private investment,” King said.

“Coupled with our support for processing, we are well positioned to be a world leading provider of critical minerals, including rare earths elements, and to support global efforts on clean energy transformation.”

Australia is fortunate to be home to some of the largest recoverable critical mineral deposits on earth, with abundant reserves of rare minerals including lithium, graphite, cobalt and nickel.

But unlike iron ore and coal, these critical minerals are also found in many other countries, meaning Australia’s traditional competitive advantage no longer comes so easily.

As the world scrambles to secure these resources of the future, this new competitive landscape has spurred an effort to unlock Australia’s potential as a critical mineral powerhouse given its large reserves of rare earth minerals.

Critical minerals are integral to the global clean energy economy and are key components for products such as solar panels, batteries, medical equipment and telecommunications technology. Thankfully, Australia is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for responsibly produced minerals.

Roland Hill from FYI Resources, a producer of critical minerals for the electric vehicle and high-tech appliance industry, notes that despite Australia’s leading position in the critical mineral market, there remains a lot of catching up to do to meet global demand pressures.

He said: “Australia is probably punching above its weight in terms of supply and is therefore boasting some of the largest production of lithium. However, much like the rest of the world, Australia has been caught short a little in terms of the preparedness to address the shortfall in critical minerals supply. We still have a long way to go before we can say we are global leaders in critical minerals, in the same we do for traditional resources.”

The global race to secure critical minerals

One of the biggest challenges facing the industry is the vulnerability of supply chains and the concentration of production facilities, particularly in China. As a result, Australia is looking to improve its trade partnerships with other nations such as India, Japan and South Korea to help diversify global supply chains.

Allison Britt, Director of Mineral Resources Advice and Promotion at Geoscience Australia, said nations around the world are looking to ensure stable supply chains for their economic and sovereign security.

“Developing the large-scale mineral supply chains needed for the new energy transition requires new partnerships among like-minded countries in addition to existing trade relationships,” Britt said.

“Australia’s international partnerships, trade agreements, extraordinary geological endowment and objectives to grow production, processing and manufacturing capacity should underpin our own energy transition.”

To help alleviate the supply chain constraint, the Australian Government penned a strategic cooperation agreement with South Korea during diplomatic visit by President, Moon Jae-in, in December 2022. South Korea is a major producer of technologies and materials that require Australian critical minerals, including products with batteries, semiconductors and electric vehicles. The nation is already Australia’s third-largest export destination.

The South Korea-Australia partnership further entrenches South Korea’s standing as an important energy and resources export partner. The agreement also aligns with a call made in October 2021 by the head of the South Korean Government’s new critical minerals planning team, which asked for greater engagement with Australia’s mining and processing capacity.

Australia’s role as a hydrogen gas producer has also not gone unnoticed and has been gaining traction, particularly with South Korean resource companies. Sun Metals, owned by Korea Zinc’s Australian business, Ark Energy, is building a green hydrogen plant in Townsville. Once at capacity, Korea Zinc hopes to ship more than 500,000 tonnes of hydrogen a year from Queensland to Korea to power their factories.

According to Joshua Dellios, Partner at MinterEllison, as the world looks for access to critical minerals, Australia is emerging as a preferred market given the country’s well-established regulatory framework that aims to ensure the sustainable development of its mineral resources while minimising their environmental impacts.

However, these safeguards also raise barriers to investment and exploration that could jeopardise Australia’s attractiveness in an increasingly competitive global market. Australia will have to overcome challenges such as, limited infrastructure, high capital costs, and the need for advanced technologies. This will require collaborative efforts among industry, government, and research institutions, as well as targeted investments in infrastructure development, technological advancements, and streamlined regulations to create a more conducive environment for the growth of the critical minerals sector.

Deliios said: “Navigating the barriers to critical mineral exploration and mining in Australia demands a united front, with industry, government, and research working hand in hand to unlock the potential of this vital sector and propel our nation towards a greener future.”

New technologies key to reaching targets

Given the relative scarcity of critical minerals, companies like Fleet Space Technologies are encouraging the mining and resource sector to reimagine how they search for minerals and embrace technologies from other industries. Hemant Chaurasia, Chief Product Officer at Fleet Space Technologies says there is a lot to learn from the latest advances in the space sector.

“It is clear that mineral exploration is getting harder, as we start to exhaust shallow discoveries and are forced to search deeper into the earth. This demands a much more data-driven approach to exploration,” Chaurasia said.

“Today, using satellites and sensors, geophysical exploration data can be transmitted to the cloud in near real-time from anywhere on earth, shortening the time it takes to create actionable 3D models of the subsurface from months to days.”

With uncertainty remaining around the supply chains of critical minerals, digital technologies are becoming increasingly important assets to mining and production companies. The solutions are allowing organisations to extract greater quantities of resources from existing materials whilst also lowering production and maintenance costs. IFS, a global leader in enterprise software solutions, is assisting the broader industry by helping them optimise supply chains and production and refining processes through its products.

Warren Zietsman, Managing Director of IFS Australia and New Zealand says embracing technology, software, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) is not just a ‘take it or leave it’ for mining organisations; t’s a vital cog in the process to achieving business and sustainability goals.

“By leveraging technologies such as AI, Augmented Reality, Digital Twins and machine learning, mining organisations can effectively manage and maintain the mining of critical minerals, while extending the life of their assets and invariably reducing their carbon footprint,” Zietsman said.

“By taking advantage of the capabilities that intelligent operational planning and simulation tools can provide, organisations can foresee unexpected scenarios to protect a value chain that relies on minimal disruption.”

Critical minerals a key theme at IMARC 2023

The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney, October 31-November 2, will feature a major focus on the global issues facing the critical mineral sector, and the challenges Australia must overcome to realise the potential to be a global critical minerals powerhouse.

With over 380 technical talks, panel discussions, and strategic keynote presentations across seven concurrent streams, IMARC offers attendees the opportunity to hear from experts across the sector as they look to revolve the varying challenges facing the mining and resource industry as they pivot towards critical minerals. Sessions will include:

• Driving International Supply Chain Collaboration in Critical Minerals;

• Investing and Financing Australia’s Critical Minerals’ Independence;

• The EU’s Critical Raw Material Policy and Initiatives in Europe and with Third Countries; and

• Sustainable Mining for Green Technologies.

International Mining is a media sponsor of IMARC 2023 and will be on site in Sydney

Resourcing Tomorrow

Major miners join Resourcing Tomorrow lineup

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Representatives from the world’s largest mining companies Anglo American, BHP, Glencore, Rio Tinto and Vale have confirmed their attendance for this year’s Resourcing Tomorrow event, in London, event organisers say.

These attendees will join other leading mining companies including AngloGold Ashanti, Antofagasta Minerals, Barrick, B2 Gold, Eldorado Gold, Endeavour Mining, Freeport-McMoRan, Newmont, Sibanye-Stillwater and Teck Resources.

As Europe’s largest mining event, Resourcing Tomorrow: Accelerating the Energy Transition takes place in London on November 28-30 and is poised to be yet another agenda-setting edition for the industry, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals in the field, event organisers say.

Resourcing Tomorrow unites all stakeholders in the mining industry, including global mining and energy companies, investors, government delegations, researchers, educators, regulators, suppliers and operators. The conference program will provide 100-plus sessions in which all of the aforementioned miners will participate, giving attendees the opportunity to engage and network with leaders and industry specialists from around the world.

The event will draw participants from more than 100 countries, including Australia, USA, UK, Canada, India, Brazil, South Africa, Ghana, Chile, Nigeria, Peru and Germany, demonstrating its international appeal and the global significance of the mining industry, organisers say.

With the increasing pace of change and emerging technologies in the mining industry, Resourcing Tomorrow will focus on the future of our industry and presents a unique opportunity for international representatives of the world’s leading resource economies to meet, find new partners, discuss current challenges, and share the latest research, technology and best practice.

International Mining is a media sponsor of Resourcing Tomorrow.

Haultrax to emphasise effective change management strategies at IMARC 2023

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Haultrax, a mining consulting company and a software provider of fleet management systems (FMS) and mining productivity technologies, is set to highlight the potential of effective change management, emphasising how proper implementation of technology can lead to remarkable advancements in mining operations, at the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) 2023, in Sydney, Australia.

By highlighting the significance of aligning people, processes and technology, Haultrax says it aims to emphasise the crucial role played by each element in achieving optimal outcomes.

Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to delve into the common pitfalls that lead to technology project failures and the key strategies to mitigate them and embark on successful digital transformation journeys, the company says.

“At Haultrax, we understand the mining business, operations, its people and processes to implement technology for the end user and make sure it’s delivering value for that company,” Shyamal Sharma, Managing Director at Haultrax (pictured), said. “We bring specialisation at a strategic level but also dirt-underneath-the-fingernails experience to ensure our solutions will work for our clients. All our solutions or proposals on how to implement technology work because of that understanding.

“Our participation at IMARC 2023 provides us with an exceptional platform to showcase how digital solutions and mining technology can be integrated into a business and implemented with the people at the frontline.”

Haultrax says it is committed to leveraging technology and innovation to make the lives of individuals easier, safer and more productive, and its participation at IMARC 2023 reflects its dedication to supporting mining companies’ decision making and business outcomes.

“We look forward to engaging with industry peers, customers and stakeholders at IMARC 2023 and sharing our vision for the future of mining,” Sharma added. “Our team is excited to explore collaborative opportunities and demonstrate how Haultrax’s solutions can drive positive change within the mining ecosystem.”

International Mining is a media sponsor of IMARC 2023, taking place on October 31-November 2, in Sydney, Australia

How artificial intelligence is revolutionising the mining industry

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The mining industry has always been at the forefront of technological progress. From the steam engine enabling coal mining to be profitable, to advanced drilling techniques, innovation has played a pivotal role in improving productivity and efficiency, the organisers of IMARC 2023 say.

In recent years, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a gamechanger for mining, allowing for more efficient exploration, taking automation to new levels, generating greater yields, dramatically improving safety, and maximising extraction, maintenance and operational performance.

Improving mine site efficiency

AI-powered systems are being rolled out across mining operations to enhance resource estimation accuracy. By examining geological data patterns and incorporating historical mining data, AI algorithms can provide more precise estimates of mineral reserves. This helps mining companies make informed decisions regarding investment, production planning and resource allocation, ultimately maximising the economic potential of mining projects.

Mark O’Brien, General Manager for Digital Technology & Innovation at CITIC Pacific Mining, notes that AI is already having a sizeable impact within the mining industry.

“In South Australia, mining companies already have access to a massive library of core samples, which are literally centuries of data,” he said. “Using AI-enabled algorithms, we’re now finding resources that were originally missed. The process is relatively similar to the advancement in DNA technology that has allowed criminologists to review and solve old cases.”

Farzi Yusufali, co-Founder of Stratum AI, a company which provides bespoke, AI-driven solutions to help mine sites increase their yields with lower risk, says: “One of our clients noted that their yield predictions in terms of what was pulled out would swing 30% each way on quarter-on-quarter. If you are processing millions of tonnes of copper, that’s a problem. Now with the application of our AI system we found there has been 58% accuracy increase in predictions quarter-on-quarter for the last couple of years.”

AI also offers immense potential in streamlining mining operations and optimising asset management. Through the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors, real-time data collection becomes feasible, enabling mining companies to monitor equipment performance, evaluate operational metrics and identify potential bottlenecks. AI algorithms can then process this data, generating valuable insights and predictive models that enhance decision making and prevent unplanned downtime.

Furthermore, AI-powered automation systems can significantly improve efficiency and safety in mining operations. Autonomous vehicles and machinery equipped with AI algorithms can navigate complex terrains, optimise routes and execute tasks with precision. This minimises human error, reduces the risk of accidents and enhances worker safety. Additionally, AI-driven predictive maintenance systems can monitor equipment health, detect anomalies and schedule maintenance activities proactively, maximising uptime and extending the lifespan of mining assets.

AI technology also holds promise in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability in the mining industry. For instance, AI algorithms can optimise the mine planning process, considering environmental factors such as land reclamation and habitat preservation.

Alex de Jager, the Managing Director of Conundrum Australia, says: “Our technologies focus specifically on creating efficiencies in operations and production, the absolute benefit of all that is not only in the profitability, but it’s in making the mines greener. If you’ve been able to extract more material from what you have mined, you can dramatically lower your electricity and water usage thanks to AI systems.”

de Jager says sensors and remote sensing technologies, combined with AI algorithms, enable continuous monitoring of air and water quality, allowing rapid identification and response to any environmental disturbances. Such monitoring systems help ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable resource extraction practices.

Bridging the skills gap

Gavin Lind, CEO of the Australian Minerals & Energy Skills Alliance (AUSMESA), says the rapid advancement of AI presents unparalleled opportunities for the nation’s industries, including mining. For example, he says AI presents opportunities to transform how the most basic tasks are undertaken to make them quicker, safer and more efficient.

“The core function of a mechanic, which is to fix and repair a vehicle, does not change with the adoption of AI,” he said. “With AI, however, a mechanic may not be needed in a garage on a mine site, but can be stationed at a remote operations centre thousands of kilometres away.”

Encouragingly, the mining industry in Australia has already taken some steps to develop digital skills and Lind says AI is also helping address one of the industry’s biggest challenges: attracting the workforce needed to meet global demand. He says mining is at a disadvantage compared with typical city-based employers, as potential recruits can’t just go down to their local mine to see what it’s like firsthand.

He said: “In countries where mining operations are remote, AI can allow us to tell that story from capital cities with the assistance of virtual reality to attract a new generation of workers to the industry.”

Is excessive risk aversion stalling progress?

There is no doubt the industry is inherently hazardous, and risk management is a priority to safeguard both people and the environment.

However, de Jager believes being excessively risk-averse can hinder progress and impede opportunities for growth. In this context, he says, countries with more progressive attitudes towards embracing innovation have surged ahead in AI adoption, gaining a competitive edge in efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Conundrum Australia creates machine-learning software for the digital transformation of the metals and mining industry and de Jager believes Australia’s reputation for rigorous regulation means it can be a big challenge for a new innovator coming into the Australian market. Conundrum will be presenting at the 2023 International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney later this year.

de Jager says: “The upside to this risk averseness is that no matter what industry you point to in Australia, the laws that govern that industry are incredibly tight and well thought out, well designed and well developed. Australia is a very innovative country, but it is also incredibly risk averse, and this can be a hurdle to market.”

He believes that by maintaining a low threshold to risk, Australia risks falling behind in the global race towards AI-driven mining solutions. Without embracing new technologies, mining companies in the country may face challenges in accurately estimating resources, optimising extraction processes and mitigating environmental impacts. Moreover, they may fail to capitalise on AI’s potential to create safer and more sustainable mining practices.

Trends in AI

When it comes to trends in AI, one of the most significant applications in mining lies in exploration and resource estimation. Traditional exploration methods can be time-consuming and costly, often yielding limited results. However, as Yusufali says, AI-driven technologies such as machine-learning algorithms and data analytics have transformed the exploration process.

She says there is a range of tools now available to analyse vast volumes of geological data, including historical drilling records, satellite imagery and sensor data, to identify promising areas for mineral deposits.

“With AI, geologists can optimise their decision-making by rapidly identifying potential mining sites, reducing the risk of exploratory failures, and saving valuable time and resources,” she says.

“AI in the exploration process can help mining companies find minerals and resources faster and more efficiently, by identifying patterns and anomalies in the data that might otherwise be missed by human geologists.”

International Mining is a media sponsor of IMARC 2023

Australia and Canada ‘coopertition’ to be highlighted at IMARC

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Australia and Canada have a lot in common when it comes to mining and resources and are critical to the industry’s global transformation. While both countries are mining super-powers in their own right and are supplying a significant percentage of the resources needed for the global energy transition, they are also using their leadership to guide the global industry’s transition to a sustainable future, according to the organisers of IMARC.

Australia and Canada are recognised as the two largest exploration destinations in dollar value terms, with stock exchanges that reflect the enormous contribution mining and resources makes to each economy.

Similarly, both countries offer substantial and relatively untapped resources, conducive investment environments, supportive governments and well-established plans for the development of the critical minerals needed for the global energy transition.

Because both have a long history of operating in complex environmental and social contexts, they also have extensive experience in sustainable practices and meaningful engagement with First Nations and local communities.

Leading the transformation

This strong shared focus on ESG principles and commitment to contemporary mining practices have seen Canada and Australia emerge in the past decade as key leaders in the global industry’s response to the challenges facing mining globally.

Carl Weatherell, CEO of the Canada Mining Innovation Council (CMIC), says the leadership of the mature mining countries such as Canada and Australia are critical to achieving the mining industry’s global environmental goals.

“In order to reduce the mining industry’s energy use, water use and environmental footprint by 50% by 2027, the major players have not only an opportunity but a responsibility to work together on innovations that reduce waste, lower costs and mitigate environmental impacts across all aspects of exploration and development,” he says.

“Canada and Australia are global leaders in the mining industry with decades of experience and innovation behind them, so they have a natural role in leading mining’s transformation to a more responsive, sustainable and resilient industry.

“It’s incumbent on the two countries and their companies to work together to redefine and rethink the future of the industry in terms of in terms of how we collaborate, who we collaborate with and what we work together on.

“Coopertition”

Weatherell says while the global mining industry is competitive by nature, it also has a shared destiny, and, by necessity, has pursued active collaboration on shared challenges, particularly around decarbonisation.

“We call this ‘coopertition’ and it is one of the reasons events like IMARC are so important when it comes to pursuing these shared goals.”

He believes Canadian and Australian mining operators and innovators have long understood the need for a cooperative effort toward a more efficient, sustainable industry, recognising these goals can only be achieved if all stakeholders sign up to a clear vision for the future and work towards it together.

“The mining and resources industries in Canada and Australia are leading the way when it comes to embracing the decarbonisation challenge and lending their expertise and experience to countries where they invest,” he said.

“As we like to say, net zero is easy; zero is hard. But through exporting their leadership and best practice globally, Australia and Canada are playing a key role in meeting the challenge.”

The same, but different

From an investor perspective, Canada and Australia are considered low-risk jurisdictions, with policies and regulatory settings that welcome, encourage and incentivise exploration and development, particularly of the resources needed to fuel the global energy transition.

Both countries share a similar legal heritage, providing a level of comfort when it comes to assessing risk and a pragmatic approach to managing the energy transition.

Principal and Founder of BRIDGE©, Siri C. Genik, says while both are young countries who offer investors stable jurisdictions, strong legal frameworks and respect for the rule of law, there are also differences which can impact on the risk appetite for investors.

Genik said: “We certainly see a consistent approach to issues such as health and safety, environmental and stakeholder management, EDI, governance and more broadly sustainability. Both countries demonstrate best practices in respect of human rights and a commitment to managing the industry’s carbon footprint.

“There are common core values and opportunities for greater investment, but there are differences between both countries, including permitting processes and timelines, and different risk appetites and investment approaches.”

She says Australian companies – from mine operators to exploration and METS companies – are looking to Canada as a key source of the critical minerals needed for a renewable future such as copper, nickel, lithium and graphite.

One such company is the Andrew Forrest-backed Wyloo Metals, which is expanding its operations in Canada with a focus on nickel and copper.

Wyloo Metals CEO, Luca Giacovazzi, says the company’s investments, particularly in the establishment of a Future Metals Hub in Ontario, underscore his belief in Canada’s long-term potential to be a globally relevant producer of reliable and responsibly sourced battery metals.

“Canada has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to establish itself as a major player in the new economy,” Giacovazzi said. “Our proposed Future Metals Hub provides the cornerstone for a globally relevant battery material supply chain in Canada, while creating economic opportunities for local communities to thrive.”

But according to Genik, while investment in Canada is at healthy levels, fewer Canadian companies have been investing in projects in Australia. She said this may be a reflection of a global mining and resources industry in transition, with older investment paradigms being challenged and new alliances being formed, particularly around resource supply resilience.

Despite this, she said the shift in globalisation also represents opportunities for Canadian and Australian companies.

She said: “There are new relationships and alliances being formed as nations are increasingly wanting to stand on their own and – to the extent they can – be more self-reliant and work with partners with shared values.

“It’s not just the Russia-Ukraine situation that is driving this, but you’re also seeing similar trends across Asia and South America, creating new opportunities for investment for countries like Canada and Australia.

“As the EU is striving to ensure increased sustainable value chains for all products being included in the goods they manufacture, it has been an important game changer. They have adopted a number of very stringent sustainability requirements and regulations that all players in the industry will need to meet if they want their products to be included in products manufactured or assembled in the EU.

“Other nations are striving to also meet these requirements, and again, Australian and Canadian companies can talk to.

“The appetite is still there, the investors continue to seek a return on their investment, but not at any cost, and not always seeking instant gratification. Markets are much more fickle today and more complex, with geopolitics creating challenging dynamics for investors. We are seeing investor expectations go beyond the value of the asset and focussing on a wholistic approach to the company. Investors want to make sure that they’re understanding and including these non-technical risks and that they understand what impact and purpose is.

“The opportunity for Canada and Australia is to continue to position themselves as sustainable leaders to be successful in this era of shifting and transition.”

Canada comes to IMARC 2023 in Sydney

Canada will continue its long association with the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) being held in Sydney, Australia this year with a delegation promoting the country’s vision to be the leading mining nation in the 21st century.

The delegation promises to be the largest ever and includes Canadian companies showcasing their products and services to the global mining and resources market, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, and a team from Global Affairs Canada promoting investment opportunities for companies to establish or expand their operations in Canada.

Senior Investment Officer at Global Affairs Canada, Bertrand Raoult, said Canada provides a highly competitive value proposition for investors.

Raoult said: “Canada is a global mining leader, producing over 60 minerals and metals and home to advanced exploration projects for lithium, rare earths and other critical minerals the world needs for a cleaner future. We have strong mineral exploration, mining and mineral processing sectors and these are attracting downstream manufacturing, as we are moving toward vertically integrated supply chains.”

Raoult said Canada is one of the most mining-friendly jurisdictions in the world and supports the sector through generous programs and incentives, competitive tax policies, a rich innovation ecosystem and Free-Trade agreements that give investors access to more than 50 markets.

“But it is perhaps our environmental, social and governance expertise that truly sets Canada apart from competitors,” Raoult said. “Thanks to generous programs, our minerals and metals sector industry is adopting clean and cutting-edge technologies to make mining and processing greener, safer, smarter and more efficient.

“As a result, Canada has one of the lowest ESG risks across global mining projects on average performing particularly well in categories such as water usage, community engagement, conservation and governance.”

The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy highlights the importance of mining and resources to the nation’s global competitiveness and prosperity. The industry accounts for 626,000 direct and indirect jobs and is the largest employer for Indigenous Peoples and 19% of Canada’s total domestic exports, and approximately $47 billion in mineral production come from mines and quarries across all regions.

Raoult said: “Canada’s vision is to responsibly develop its geological resources, including critical minerals, advance the participation of indigenous peoples, ensure sustainable mining and rehabilitation practices, drive world-leading innovation, build community support for sustainable mineral development and attract underrepresented groups to this high-tech sector that is key to a green economy.”

The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) is returning to the ICC Sydney from October 31-November 2, 2023. International Mining is a media sponsor of the event and will be attending.

Mine closure under the spotlight at IMARC

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Experts from environmental, economic and social science backgrounds are converging in Sydney, Australia, this November at the International Mining and Resources Conference & Expo (IMARC) to discuss opportunities created by the rehabilitation and repurposing of out-of-use mine sites, according to event organisers.

Due to necessary land disturbances, most mine sites cannot be returned to their natural state so owners must look at how to repurpose them to create long-term economic opportunities and reduce the burden on the environment.

Dr Guy Boggs, CEO of CRC TiME, says these sites can provide long-term benefits far beyond mine lifespans.

“Everybody is focused on energy transition at the moment and the need to decarbonise,” he says. “There are some really novel projects happening, looking at old mine pits and turning them into pumped hydropower sites.”

He offers up the example of the old Kidston gold mine, west of Townsville, Queensland, that is starting to produce electricity with pumped hydro and also incorporates a massive solar energy farm.

“The mines have strong electricity grids so you can make use of the infrastructure that was built during the mine,” he said.

The Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro project will produce 250 MW of renewable energy, providing enough electricity to power 143,000 homes.

CRC TiME says old mine sites across Australia are being used for a range of long-term projects that the public may not be aware of. These include environmental sanctuaries in WA’s Goldfields region and scientific innovations such as an underground physics lab within the Stawell Gold Mine.

The rate of new mine closures in Australia is expected to increase in the near future as many mines come to the end of their operating life. On average, a mine is expected to operate between 10 and 30 years with the resources boom beginning 30 years ago, according to experts.

IMARC speaker, Meg Kauthen, Sustainability Designer at Business for Development, believes Australia is uniquely positioned to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the closure of mine sites.

Kauthen says: “If we get infrastructure aligned to the community’s needs, it’s a fantastic investment beyond the life of the mine. We have been working in Africa where we have repurposed old mine infrastructure to help boost the agronomics of the region in partnership with the Cotton On Group.

“We suggest that Australian mines and mining communities need to approach the development of infrastructure in the same way.”

The economic opportunities presented to many regional communities facing mine closures will require a diversified workforce ranging from engineers, business and operations managers, accountants, hydrologists and beyond, experts say.

And, by diversifying the economic opportunities in regional Australia, it is hoped that more people will migrate from the capital cities help grow smaller communities.

This is just one of the many opportunities within the mining sector being explored at IMARC, which will run from November 2-4, 2022.

International Mining is a media sponsor of IMARC 2022

Industry leaders to discuss mining’s sustainable future at IMARC

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A greener future will require more mining than ever before, meaning collaboration and the adoption of new technologies across the industry’s entire value chain is no longer an option, but a necessity, organisers of the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) say.

This will be among the key challenges being addressed by industry leaders and innovators at the conference, due to take place on November 2-4, in Sydney, Australia.

According to key players in mining equipment, technology and services (METS) space, who will be speaking at the forum, there’s an urgent need for the industry to dramatically increase its uptake of sustainable technologies.

AspenTech Vice President and General Manager of Metals and Mining, Jeannette McGill, says not being at the cutting edge of available technology can be risky for mining companies.

“Technology is mandatory as it underwrites the future for mines, especially the ones mining lower-grade metals,” she said. “It’s these technologies that are going to allow us to mine and process more efficiently and allow us to have less impact on the environment.

“We can be more robust in how we push out the technologies into the market, but the constraints are around a skills base to absorb it, but also the adoption of technologies doesn’t come without a cost.”

Paul Berkovic, Chief Commercial Officer at I4 Mining by Rayven, agrees initially some technologies are hard to adopt but will eventually have an extremely significant impact on productivity, safety and in meeting demand for critical minerals vital to future energy solutions, including solar panels and wind farms.

“Competitively, it will be unavoidable, but there will also be huge environmental benefits to the adoption of this technology which consumers should understand because mining is not going anywhere,” Berkovic said. “It’s a really important part of our economy but how do we make it a more friendly part of the economy than it currently is perceived as?”

Ethically-conscious consumers are one of the major driving forces behind the mining sector’s transition, according to METS Ignited General Manager, Kylah Morrison, who says they are more influential on the industry than ever before thanks to the pressure they put on end-user manufacturers.

“You’re seeing a lot of those end users, which maybe had two or three steps before the raw materials got to them, starting to have to take responsibility for what those interim steps are and make them more secure, so we’re seeing miners have a more direct relationships with end users,” Morrison said.

“Fortunately, with data and computing power, we can offer that transparency. Apple, for example, could say to the consumer who’s purchasing an iPhone or an iPad: ‘we know for sure that we’re providing a carbon neutral or low carbon product’.”

With that community influence in mind, it’s also the responsibility of mining companies around the world to ensure they are engaging these technologies in a thoughtful way, rather than making reactionary decisions to engage in short-term solutions that may not be manageable in the future.

“The mining space has been at the vanguard of technology to a certain extent,” Berkovic said. “It’s had self-driving vehicles and all sorts for 20-30 years now, but what is happening now is a whole lot of these new novel technologies are coming out but they’re being adopted in a sort of ‘point and shoot’ manner,” Berkovic said.

IMARC Conference Director, Sherene Asnasyous, says with such a diverse cross section of the mining and resources industry attending, the event is a unique opportunity for collaboration to address evolving challenges such as this.

“IMARC will shine a spotlight on the role the METS sector is taking in driving the global energy transition, how it is bringing innovation to the exploration and development of new future-facing resources, and how it is helping balance the needs of the developed and the developing world, as well as local communities and environments, in the resource transition,” Asnasyous said.

“At its core, IMARC creates a global conversation and is all about the business of mining and resources, providing extensive opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing and cross-sector engagement to help drive a smarter, more productive industry of the future.”

International Mining is a media sponsor of IMARC, in Sydney, Australia