CHALLENGING THE OLD WAYS OF THINKING

In this interview, Jonas Ranggård, Manager, Boliden Mines Climate & Energy Program, Boliden Mineral, discusses the climate imperatives for miners, particularly those operating open pit mines and their associated hauling equipment. At the forthcoming Toronto summit, he looks forward to interacting with peers from Canada, “one of the few countries with mining conditions and challenges similar to what we face in northern Sweden.”

ENERGY AND MINES: What are some of the most significant changes for the mining industry as a result of the increased focus on ESG and climate performance?

JONAS RANGGÅRD: Over the past decade, mining companies have mostly focused on conducting feasibility studies and trials of technologies that limit their climate impact. The time has come for them to demonstrate real, measurable savings in emissions, arising from a strong emphasis on a much broader implementation of green technology.

E+M: What are some of the challenges of trying to balance climate and ESG commitments with mine production, expansion, and commercial realities?

JR: The key is to challenge the old ways of thinking. However, electrification will have a drastic impact on mine planning and production control.

E+M: Which technologies are expected to be critical in meeting Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions goals for mining?

JR: Definitely, the electrification of open pit haul trucks. Though fossil-free electricity generation is important, it is a challenge shared with pretty much all other industries. If we don’t solve open pit hauling, no one will.

E+M: Who are you looking forward to connecting with at the Energy and Mines Toronto Summit on November 1-2 at the Delta Toronto?

JR: Mining peers from Canada, which is one of the few countries with mining conditions and challenges similar to what we face in northern Sweden.

Jonas Ranggård is speaking at the Energy and Mines Toronto Summit, Nov 1, 10:10 AM on Mining Decarbonization, Opportunities, and Hurdles

PHOTO CREDIT - Aitik, electric trolley Photo: Mats Hillblom©

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