The mining industry’s efforts to reduce GHG emissions

Mining is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with the extraction and processing of minerals and metals generating significant amounts of CO2. As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, many mining companies are working to reduce their carbon footprint and introduce technologies that will help mitigate their environmental impact. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which mining companies are working to reduce CO2 emissions and the innovative technologies they are using to do so.

Most industry leaders are committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

To achieve this goal BHP, one of the world’s largest mining companies, is working to reduce emissions from its operations and supply chain, as well as investing in renewable energy and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

Rio Tinto is focusing on reducing emissions from its operations, investing in low-carbon technologies, and collaborating with stakeholders to find solutions to reduce emissions across the mining industry.

Global mining company Anglo American is also working to reduce emissions from its operations, including through the use of renewable energy and CCS technologies, as well as investing in the development of low-carbon technologies.

Nornickel, the world’s largest supplier of battery-grade nickel and platinum group metals, is also a major contributor to GHG emissions and has developed an environmental strategy to reduce its impacts. As part of a broader plan, the miner is studying the GHG absorbing potential of tailings, the waste rock left behind after mines are stripped of valuable resources.

Vale, a Brazilian mining company, is working to reduce emissions from its operations and supply chain, as well as investing in renewable energy and CCS technologies. Vale is also working to increase the sustainability of its operations through initiatives such as reforestation and water management.

How mining companies are introducing technologies to reduce CO2 emissions

Renewable energy: One of the most effective ways for mining companies to reduce their carbon emissions is by transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. Many mining companies, such as BHP and Rio Tinto, are investing in renewable energy projects and transitioning their operations to run on clean energy. Nornickel claims that over half of its power comes from renewable sources such as hydropower generated by two Siberian plants.

Carbon capture and storage: CCS is a technology that captures CO2 emissions from power plants and industrial facilities and stores them underground. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce GHG emissions and is being explored by several mining companies, including BHP and Anglo American.

Energy efficiency: Improving energy efficiency is another key method miners use to reduce carbon emissions. This can be achieved through a variety of measures, such as upgrading equipment to more energy-efficient models, implementing energy-saving practices and using more energy-efficient lighting and appliances. Many mining companies such as Vale are working to improve the energy efficiency of their operations in order to reduce their carbon footprint.

Sustainable practices: Mining companies can also reduce their carbon emissions by adopting more sustainable practices in their operations. This can include reforestation and water management initiatives, as well as using sustainable materials and processes to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.

Mining companies have a significant role to play in reducing GHG emissions and mitigating their environmental impact. From transitioning to renewable energy inputs and improving energy efficiency to adopting sustainable practices and exploring technologies such as carbon capture and storage, it is clear that these companies are working to reduce their carbon footprint. It is crucial that all stakeholders continue and expand these efforts in order to address the global challenge of climate change.