Reduce Mining’s Large Carbon Footprint

Submitted by Kristian on Mon, 12/25/2023 - 13:00

Becker Mining USA acknowledges the mining industry's responsibility for approximately 4% to 7% of global CO2 emissions. Traditionally, the industry heavily relies on fossil fuels, such as diesel, to power equipment and operations. Diesel-powered activities contribute significantly to emissions, accounting for 30% to 80% of a mine’s direct greenhouse gas emissions, depending on the mine site’s geography and materials being mined.

Large Carbon Footprint

 

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The Role of Mining

Despite this, mining plays a crucial role in building a more sustainable world. Green energy technologies like solar plants, wind farms, and electric vehicles (EVs) demand more metals and minerals than their fossil fuel-based counterparts. For instance, an electric vehicle requires about six times more mineral inputs than a fossil-fuel-powered car. The demand for metals and minerals is expected to grow by 500% by 2050, largely driven by the need to support green technology. The challenge lies in meeting this demand while limiting mining companies’ CO2 emissions.

The Value of Low-Carbon

Transitioning from diesel-powered to electrified equipment and processes is a viable solution for meeting demand while curbing CO2 emissions. Utilizing low-carbon or decarbonized electricity instead of fossil fuels is crucial to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. Currently, electrification primarily focuses on mine equipment, such as replacing diesel-powered hauling trucks with electric alternatives.

This shift can significantly impact reducing mining companies’ carbon footprint. Globally, there are approximately 28,000 large mine hauling trucks emitting over 68 million tons of CO2 annually – equivalent to the emissions from more than 8.5 million homes' energy use for a year. Switching from gas or diesel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles has the potential to nearly eliminate these emissions.

Large Carbon Footprint

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The Borden Mine 

Some mines, like the Borden mine in Ontario, Canada, have proven that electrification is achievable without sacrificing performance. At Borden Mine, Newmont has replaced its entire underground truck fleet from diesel-powered to battery-powered. This change not only reduced CO2 emissions but also improved air quality eliminated expensive internal combustion engine maintenance, and reduced noise pollution.

To prepare for equipment and process electrification, mines must manage the changing balance of electricity demand and supply, along with regulations. Electrification adds complexity as it impacts both power supply and demand. To support electrification, mines need to plan and schedule electricity supply and demand in a way that aligns with the entire management system.

Electrification becomes more manageable when mines develop a roadmap for change. By collaborating with a team of experts, companies can create a personalized, scalable electrification roadmap. Trusted partners help mines reach decarbonization goals by designing a plan that ensures the operational continuity of their processes. This strategy guides companies through each step of electrification, including resource allocation and determining how to meet energy needs.

Conclusion

Becker Mining USA recognizes the imperative for the mining industry to address its substantial contribution to global CO2 emissions. While traditionally reliant on fossil fuels, the sector's pivotal role in fostering a sustainable world cannot be overlooked. Green-energy technologies necessitate increased mining for metals and minerals, driving a surge in demand expected to grow by 500% by 2050. The challenge lies in meeting this demand while mitigating the industry's own carbon footprint.

The transition from diesel-powered to electrified equipment emerges as a promising solution. Notably, the shift toward electric vehicles and processes has the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, as exemplified by success stories like the Borden mine in Ontario. By replacing diesel-powered fleets with battery-powered alternatives, mining companies can simultaneously enhance operational efficiency, air quality, and noise pollution.

However, the path to electrification demands meticulous planning and coordination to manage the evolving dynamics of electricity supply, demand, and regulatory compliance. Electrification, when guided by a well-structured roadmap developed in collaboration with experts, becomes a feasible and scalable strategy. Trusted partnerships are pivotal in achieving decarbonization goals while ensuring the uninterrupted functionality of mining processes. As the mining industry stands at the intersection of environmental responsibility and technological advancement, embracing electrification represents a pivotal step toward a sustainable and low-carbon future.

Large Carbon Footprint

 

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Embrace the Future: Partner with Becker Mining USA for a Sustainable Tomorrow!

As the mining industry grapples with its environmental impact, Becker Mining USA stands at the forefront of change. Our commitment to addressing the sector's contribution to global CO2 emissions is unwavering. By transitioning from diesel-powered to electrified equipment, we offer a pathway to meet rising demands while significantly reducing carbon footprints. Becker Mining USA is your trusted ally in navigating this transformative journey.

Crafting a personalized, scalable electrification roadmap is our expertise. Collaborate with our team of experts to seamlessly integrate electrified processes, ensuring not only compliance with regulations but also the uninterrupted functionality of your operations. The future is electric, and Becker Mining USA is your key to unlocking sustainable success. Join us in shaping a low-carbon future for the mining industry—where innovation meets responsibility. Embrace electrification with Becker Mining USA and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.

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