Net Zero Emission Mining
Addressing the challenge of emissions reduction in Western Australia’s mining industry.
The Challenge
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 deployment means preparations need to start now.
Current Activities
- M10447 – Wetland in a Box (EnphytoBox®) – a smart water treatment system to support the decarbonisation of water in mining
- M10443 – Stationary Mine Electrification (FBI CRC)
- M0533u – Assessment, design and operation of battery-supported electric mining vehicles and machinery (FBI CRC)
Completed Activities
- M10468 – Mining in a low-emissions economy
- M10464 – CSIRO Renewable Energy Storage Roadmap
Get involved
Apply for Funding
Talk to us about available research funding opportunities for Net Zero Emissions Mining.
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.
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Page was last reviewed 9 February 2024