The Minerals Council of Australia has confirmed that the country’s mining industry will commit to becoming a net zero emissions industry by 2050 in support of the goals set in the Paris Agreement.
According to the industry association which represents mining giants such as BHP and Rio Tinto, the goal can be achieved if mining companies dedicate themselves to investing in advanced technologies as well as focusing on energy efficiency and process optimization.
The MCA Climate Action Plan progress report which was released in June 2021 had shown that many mining companies had already started to take clearly defined action towards achieving this goal.
As an example, mining giant BHP inked a deal for renewable energy supply with the goal of slashing emissions from its Queensland coal mine energy use, while Rio Tinto deployed solar PV and battery storage at Gudai-Darri in Western Australia.
Mining equipment companies, such as Caterpillar and Komatsu have also pledged to do their part and contribute to the development of zero-emissions haulage, and increased deployment of renewables at mine sites.
“A more sustainable minerals sector is not only important for Australia’s post-COVID recovery, it is also helping to sustain and improve the lives of millions around the world, providing the critical raw materials necessary for modern and emerging economies to flourish in a decarbonised future,” it is stated in the MCA’s news announcement.
