Sustainable Mining: Technologies and Practices That Are Changing the Industry

The answer is yes — but it requires commitment, innovation, and responsibility. Sustainable mining is a set of strategies that seeks to reduce the negative impacts of the activity on the environment and society, without compromising its economic viability. Aligned with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, this approach involves everything from initial planning to responsible mine closure.

It also involves the conscious use of natural resources, such as water and energy, and the adoption of environmental control systems that ensure the protection of biodiversity, local ecosystems, and nearby communities. The concept is based on pillars such as efficient use of resources, management of environmental impacts, valuing local communities, and responsible corporate governance.

The generation of tailings is currently one of the biggest environmental challenges in mining. Innovative companies have developed projects to reuse these tailings in other production chains, transforming them into waste. One example is the incorporation of waste into the production of construction materials, such as ecological blocks, bricks, and cement. These initiatives strengthen the concept of a circular economy, promoting the valorization of by-products and reducing the environmental liability of mining activities.

 

Replacing fossil fuels with clean energy sources is one of the most effective strategies for decarbonizing mining. Solar and wind power plants are being installed within mining complexes themselves, allowing companies to generate their own clean energy and reduce long-term operating costs.

One highlight is Vale's Sol do Cerrado solar complex, which, when fully operational, is expected to supply 16% of the company's energy demand in Brazil. In addition, initiatives such as the use of biodiesel in heavy machinery and investment in energy storage technologies (long-life batteries) are becoming increasingly common.

 

Fleet electrification is a strategic solution from both an environmental and operational standpoint. Battery- or hydrogen-powered vehicles reduce direct greenhouse gas emissions, as well as noise pollution and heat in underground mines.

At the same time, vehicle automation—such as off-road trucks and drills—helps improve worker safety, optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and increase operational accuracy. Some mines in Brazil, Australia, and Sweden already operate with 100% autonomous fleets in certain sectors.

 

The digitalization of mining allows for much more precise and proactive control of operations. Drones, thermal cameras, IoT (Internet of Things) sensors and satellite images are used to monitor environmental conditions, dam stability, leaks, soil movement and much more.

With the support of artificial intelligence algorithms, this data is analyzed in real time to predict failures, anticipate maintenance and guarantee environmental integrity. This not only increases the efficiency of environmental and safety management, but also strengthens compliance with legal requirements and transparency with stakeholders.

The closure of a mine is not just the end of extractive activities, but the start of a new cycle for the affected area. A well-structured closure plan includes environmental rehabilitation actions, such as restoring native vegetation, controlling erosion and neutralizing liabilities.

It can also involve converting the area into other economic or social uses, such as leisure areas, environmental education or tourism. It is essential that this planning is done from the start of the project and updated over time, with the participation of interested parties, especially the affected community, who will be able to give their opinion on the new destination of the area.

Coexistence with surrounding communities is one of the most sensitive dimensions of mining. Brazilian legislation, best practice guides and international treaties such as ILO Convention 169 demand that traditional communities, indigenous peoples and the surrounding population be heard and have their rights respected before any project begins. In the environmental licensing process for projects that cause significant impacts, for example, there is a stage aimed at dialog with interested parties: the public hearing.

Sustainable practices involve much more than financial compensation: they include constant dialog, investments in infrastructure, support for education, professional training and encouraging local entrepreneurship. Companies that act transparently and collaboratively tend to build stronger and more resilient relationships with their neighbors.

 

The adoption of internationally recognized certifications has been a way of demonstrating companies' commitment to sustainability. The TSM (Towards Sustainable Mining) protocol, for example, establishes indicators for risk management, safety, biodiversity and community engagement.

International standards such as ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety), the GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) reporting methodology, CERA 4in1 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) play a fundamental role in strengthening corporate governance and increasing the transparency of organizations.

CERA 4in1, for example, offers concrete evidence of environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibility for all types of minerals, anywhere in the world, and is applicable to companies of all sizes. The adoption of the SDGs and other standards reinforces the commitment to sustainable, ethical and responsible action.

Companies aligned with these guidelines gain greater credibility and more easily attract investors, partners and clients who value the social and environmental impact of their operations.

 

 

• Vale: the company has adopted dry stacking as an alternative to tailings dams, with a focus on safety and risk reduction. It also leads renewable energy projects and innovation in logistics, such as the EFVM electrified railroad.
• Samarco: the company invested in the construction of a tailings filtration plant, enabling the material to be transported by belts and controlled stacking in specific areas, with the aim of eliminating the use of new dams.
• Anglo American: its Minas-Rio project has a pipeline of more than 500 km, which transports iron ore from Minas Gerais to the Port of Açu with less logistical impact. The company also invests in biodiversity and in programs focused on gender equity and social inclusion.
• Kinross Paracatu: with a focus on operational excellence and social responsibility, it maintains projects for the efficient use of water, training for young people and support for micro-entrepreneurs in the region.
• MRN (Mineração Rio do Norte): develops reforestation initiatives and maintains partnerships with educational institutions to promote environmental education and technical training in the Amazon region.
• Vallourec: has initiatives to treat the waste generated, using it as raw material for construction products such as blocks, bricks and tiles. Materials that can be used in houses, paving, etc.

Sustainable mining is a growing reality, driven by regulatory and social pressures and opportunities for innovation. Companies that adapt not only reduce their risks, but also gain in efficiency, reputation and access to better financing. More than an obligation, adopting sustainable practices has become a competitive differentiator in the mining market.

As society demands greater environmental responsibility, mining is faced with a choice: resist the changes or lead the transition to a more ethical, efficient and balanced model. The good news is that the tools, technologies and knowledge already exist and are evolving. The mining of the future has already begun, and it's green.