Net Zero Emission Mining
Addressing the challenge of emissions reduction in Western Australia’s mining industry.
The Challenge
Net Zero Emission Mining in Western Australia
This strategic focus area aims to reduce the carbon footprint, lower overall energy costs and improve the energy efficiency of the Western Australian mining sector through harnessing collective efforts, enabling decarbonisation to become an opportunity for the sector, not a cost.
Context
With a global shift towards decarbonisation, the need for mineral resources to support the energy transition places Western Australia at the forefront of a significant economic opportunity.
Western Australia supplies the minerals used for wind and solar energy generation; electric vehicles; and battery storage which will enable the international community to achieve the Paris Agreement goals of net zero emissions by 2050.
With this opportunity also comes a challenge, in ensuring new and increased demand for these resources meets rising environmental, social and governance (ESG) expectations and does not negatively impact on the competitiveness of the mining sector.
Innovation is needed for our mining sector to capture this opportunity, develop new ways of working and transform how energy is generated and used. The lead time to new technology development and installation means preparations need to start now.
Our Activities
Through our Collaborative Leadership pillar, MRIWA is working across sectors to challenge what is possible, showcase innovation and provide support to advance net zero emission mining through a targeted program of minerals research.
A key initiative is MRIWA’s annual conference, with the Net Zero Emission Mining WA Conferences in 2021 and 2022 providing opportunities to hear from leaders across sectors about their ambitions and successes, as well as the challenges on which we must work together to achieve net zero emissions.
Practical resources to support decarbonisation activities are also available, such as the Mining in a low-emissions economy report series released in September 2022.
Register for updates using the links below to be the first to hear new announcements, conference details and other upcoming activities for 2023.
NZEM Projects
- Wetland in a Box (EnphytoBox®) – a smart water treatment system to support the decarbonisation of water in mining – M10447
- CSIRO Renewable Energy Storage Roadmap – M10464
- Mining in a low-emissions economy – M10468
- Assessment, design and operation of battery-supported electric mining vehicles and machinery (FBI CRC) – M0533u
- Stationary Mine Electrification (FBI CRC) – M10443
Get involved
Apply for Funding
Talk to us about available research funding opportunities for your net zero emission mining solutions.
Attend our Conference
Join mining industry leaders, METS companies, researchers and government to discuss critical solutions for net zero emission mining.
NZEM Resources
Access practical resources to support your journey towards net zero emission mining.
Join the Conversation
Sign up to receive the latest news and updates from MRIWA, with specific updates on Net Zero Emission Mining solutions available direct to your inbox.
Page was last reviewed 5 April 2023