Abstract
Mining has always operated in harsh climates as much of the industry already spans some of the most inhospitable conditions worldwide. Future hazardous conditions due to climate change such as extreme heat and drought will only increase the challenges faced by the industry. The mining industry itself is not innocent here because it accounts for 4 to 7 percent of total worldwide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which directly contribute to the ongoing climate change crisis. Mining sector CO2 emissions are incurred primarily through operation and power consumption, and coal mining methane. With the world pledging for carbon neutrality by 2050, decarbonization is vital to the industry and current technological advancements can facilitate this process greatly. In our poster, we will be focusing on the general discussion of the following two (2) areas:
1. Mining fleet electrification significantly reduces the need to burn fossil fuels to run operations, thus reducing emissions. Electrification does, however, require battery technologies and infrastructure to be reliably available with potential significant investments. Improvements in battery technology may also be required
2. Blockchain digital stamps used by mining companies can drive business and consumer decisions toward low carbon choices. The transparency and traceability of GHG emissions can provide the basis for regulatory measures and create market standards towards sustainability. This relies on the behaviour of consumers and governments; and provides a good indication of company morales
Electrification and blockchain digital stamps are to be evaluated in the effectiveness to reduce carbon emissions, in general, using the following:
- CO2 equivalent per year reduced
- Cost-benefit analysis
- Ability to implement on a wide scale in the industry.
Projects will also be referenced. Some potential examples are:
- Newmont Goldcorp's first all-electric mine - The Borden Mine
- Imperial Oil using robots refill equipment at Kearl Operation
- Rio Tinto aims to set “… a new standard in transparency and traceability for the aluminum industry with the launch of START.” This transparency can promote technological development and business improvement.