Big Picture

Mining is gradually going green

Global

As issues regarding climate change continue to permeate almost every aspect of the high-emitting mining industry, corporations are eager to accelerate progress towards a decarbonised future. In an effort to keep pace with the global agenda, the race is on among competitors to increase lithium and nickel output to meet the rising demand for battery metals. But questions still remain about the sustainable sourcing of the battery metals and whether the companies who are claiming to place sustainability at the centre of their new operations are, in fact, sincere with their promises. This much, however, is clear: the mining industry is turning a corner, away from outdated and damaging fossil fuels and towards a more renewable, ecofriendly-focused future. As anticipation regarding the looming electric vehicle revolution grows, it brings with it a sense of optimism for an industry that, to date, is one held accountable for an issue that has come to threaten the future of our planet. Perhaps an industry that has contributed to the problem also holds the key to the solution.