Over the last few years, mine and industrial operations have put a large portion of their efforts into making their businesses and production more sustainable. This is partly because the mining industry impacts the world – mining operations are found on almost every continent on the planet, and the materials mined are vital for human life and flourishing. 

Mines need to take sustainability efforts seriously in order to remain attractive to stakeholders and to benefit their own bottom lines. Technological advancements continue to make this change to be sustainability-minded more doable. 

Why Is Sustainability Important For Mining Companies? 

As the world continues to focus on lowering carbon footprints, investors, shareholders, and customers are increasingly demanding that companies demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Mining companies aren’t excluded from this. Those operations that integrate sustainable practices are more likely to attract investment, gain public trust, and maintain positive stakeholder relationships.

Not only this but focusing on green technologies can help mines save money. By eliminating waste and inefficient practices, and embracing recycling and renewable energy, mines can experience significant cost reductions and improved financial performance. 

What Is Sustainable Development In Mining?

The sector of sustainable innovations for the mining industry is booming! According to Mining Technology, hybrid diesel-electric loaders, portable rigs for remote drilling, and biotechnology or biomining (extracting copper from ore in a much quicker energy efficient way) are some of the ways that mines are reducing their carbon footprint. 

“Not only is the process [biomining] less energy intensive but it can be used for low-grade materials that simply get dumped and increase the total metal extracted from a pit to 90% instead of 60%. The bacteria used is also a lot less harmful to the environment than chemicals used in traditional methods.”

How Can We Make Mines More Sustainable? 

First, one of the best things a mine can do to become more sustainable is to analyse existing processes to see where there is waste. “Tricks like recycling copper, which takes seven times less energy than processing ore, recycling steel which uses three-and-a-half times less energy than ore, can go a long way in determining the longevity of a mine and its positive environmental impact,” explains Mining Digital. 

Analyse machinery, lighting, and systems to check if they’re functioning optimally with limited waste. Identifying areas that may be causing inefficiencies and incurring unnecessary expenses, such as maintenance and replacements, is crucial.

In many industrial setups, lighting often emerges as a critical area needing improvement. Introducing quality LED lighting solutions is one of the most effective ways to enhance illumination while simultaneously cutting costs and lessening a carbon footprint.

LEDs boast a significantly longer lifespan when compared to traditional lighting options, resulting in reduced replacement and maintenance expenses over time. With LED lighting solutions consuming up to 60% less energy than conventional counterparts, substantial cost savings become apparent while also contributing to a reduced environmental impact.

Moreover, the reduced energy consumption of LEDs directly translates into lower electricity bills, ensuring long-term savings for businesses. By adopting LED lighting solutions, companies can redirect these cost savings to other essential aspects of their operations, promoting overall efficiency and growth. Plus, x-Glo light strips are recyclable! 

The world of mining is changing. Sustainable practices are at the forefront of innovation, and in order to stay viable mining and industrial operations need to get on the bandwagon. Choosing to embrace LED technology empowers businesses to actively participate in conserving natural resources and curbing carbon emissions, thereby making a positive and impactful contribution to our planet's well-being.