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Additionally, 77 percent of respondents said they view integrated electrification, automation and digitization as crucial elements in achieving sustainability objectives. Another significant portion — 53 percent of those surveyed — foresee a major transformation in their operations within the next five years.

“Early movers will be ahead of the market having learnt many lessons about low carbon operations,” said Max Luedtke, ABB’s global business line manager for mining. However, he acknowledged that while many leaders appear confident in reaching their sustainability targets, a minority are still grappling with various challenges.

The report from ABB, published on October 29, also identifies three key areas for investment to facilitate the transition: workforce development, technological advancements and process improvements.

A notable barrier identified by 44 percent of survey respondents is the lack of expertise and skills necessary for effective decarbonization. In response, 70 percent of mining companies are prioritizing the reskilling of existing employees to make sure they are equipped for the new demands of sustainable practices.

Furthermore, electrification is highlighted as a significant factor in achieving decarbonization. Approximately 91 percent of leaders assert that electrification is a fundamental component of their decarbonization strategies.

Investments in electric haulage fleets are on the rise, with 42 percent of respondents planning to decarbonize their fleets by 2026, and 68 percent aiming to electrify at least a quarter of their operations by 2030. The shift is expected to enhance operational efficiency, while significantly reducing carbon emissions — a key ESG goal.

Moreover, the mining sector is recognizing the increased importance of automation in boosting safety and efficiency. Automation reduces the need for human involvement in high-risk environments, thereby minimizing potential accidents.

Seventy-four percent of industry leaders view innovations in ventilation systems as critical for improving efficiency and sustainability. These advances not only contribute to safer working conditions, but also result in energy savings.

Digitization remains a key focus area, with the report indicating that the mining industry is still catching up to other sectors in terms of technological maturity. For instance, digital sensors and advanced monitoring solutions are increasingly being used to optimize energy consumption and enhance operational safety. The deployment of remotely controlled robotics is also facilitating safer working conditions, enabling operators to address risks from a safe distance.

The findings of the ABB report come at a pivotal time as the mining industry faces heightened scrutiny over its environmental impact. While the sector is tasked with supplying the critical raw materials necessary for green technologies, it equally bears the responsibility of reaching its goals through environmentally feasible…