Precision and Low Impact Mining

The Challenge

The Western Australian mining industry has seen an increasing focus on precision and low impact mining approaches, driven by both industry and government initiatives, such as the adoption of autonomous haulage systems, and the implementation of advanced environmental monitoring technologies. Despite these advancements, there are still challenges to overcome, including the rehabilitation of legacy mine sites, the management of water resources, and the engagement of Traditional Owner communities in decision-making and project milestone processes.

Context

The minerals sector is undergoing a significant global shift towards responsible practices as a result of growing community environmental and social concerns, changing regulations, and increasing pressure from stakeholders. Initiatives such as the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide platforms for dialogue and cooperation on sustainable mining issues. Emerging trends in precision and low impact mining include collaboration and knowledge exchange among mining nations to share best practices, and development of innovative technologies to address common challenges.

While Western Australia is a major contributor to Australia’s mining industry, and plays a crucial role in its economy, generating employment, export revenue, and economic growth, there remains opportunities for the state to position itself as a global leader in responsible mining regulation, practices and innovation.

MRIWA encourages and supports precision and low impact mining research which advances technologies, provides clean energy solutions and responsible practices to optimise resource extraction and management, minimise environmental disruption and uphold social values.

Current Activities

• M10660 – OptiClino Precision Drill Alignment System – MVP Optimisation, Prototype 2 Development and Underground Field Validation at Fimiston Underground Mine
• M10646 – A.I. enhanced Machine Vision System for Automated Flange Bolting Robot “Boltron” for Mining and Minerals Processing Infrastructure
• M10585  Development and Implementation of CMAP: A Corrosion Monitoring and Protection System for Gold Cyanidation Tanks
• M10599 – Precision and Low Impact Mining Technologies inventory
• M10559  Automation System for Processing Tank Descale Rig with Advanced A.I. driven 3D radar and sensor technologies
• M10529  Automated Flange Bolting Robot with Camera Vision for Mining and Minerals Processing Infrastructure
• M10501  Algae-based technologies for improved environmental outcomes and sustainable post-mining futures
• M10458  Mine Pit Lake Assessment and Management: A National Initiative to Support Mine Closure and Regional Opportunities
• M10442  Improved Prediction, Remediation and Closure of Acid and Neutral Metalliferous Drainage (AMD/NMD) Sites
• M10430  Sustainable optimisation of mining complexes through innovative algorithms
• M0545 – Evaluation of in-situ barrier technology for risk mitigation and extraction optimisation for in-situ-recovery operations
• M0529 – Lixiviant access creation in impermeable hard rock mass for the in-situ underground leaching of metals from ore

Completed Activities

• M0544 – Towards a Mechanistic Understanding of Electrokinetic In Situ Leaching
• M0519 – Broadening the opportunity for in-situ recovery of value from mineral deposits