Digitalization Processes in the Mining Industry in the Context of Sustainability

Together with the Institute of Advanced Mining Technologies (AMT) at RWTH Aachen University, we are conducting two studies on the topic of digitalization in mining and its effects on sustainability. Germany’s Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) sponsors the study. Part I of the study is now publically available here.

Part I of the study is providing a broad range of necessary definitions and standards. Major digitalization trends in mining are identified and projected onto different process levels in mining (operational, management, leadership). Potential effects on sustainability (social, economic, ecologic pillars) are discussed.

Part II of the study is currently in preparation. Based on international expert interviews, the current level of implementation level of digital technologies and their impact on sustainability aspects is investigated. This allows for a global market perspective on the different digitalization initiatives and trends in mining.