Precision and Low Impact Mining
Enabling precision and low impact mining solutions to reduce waste and footprint of the sector.
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.
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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
- M10611 - Responsible management of retired mining vehicle batteries to address environmental and economic challenges
- M10599 - Precision and Low Impact Mining Technologies inventory
- M10597 - The Critical Impacts of Psychosocial Risk Factors on Workers’ Behaviours and Workforce Sustainability: Examining the Role of Psychosocial Safety Climate in Mining Industry
- M10596 - Occupational Hygiene Dust Sampler Comparison Study in Western Australian Mining Operations
- M10594 - Psychological Capital – The Last Line of Defence in Psychosocial Safety in the Mining Industry
- M10585 - Development and Implementation of CMAP: A Corrosion Monitoring and Protection System for Gold Cyanidation Tanks
- 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
- M10406 - Evaluating the mining industry’s view of their success in delivering a positive legacy for host communities at the time of mine closure
- 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
- M10595 - Effective Leader Safety Storytelling: its attributes and outcomes
- M10562 - Impact of COVID-19 on the leadership of operational leaders in the oil, gas, and mining sector of Australia
- M0544 - Towards a mechanistic understanding of electrokinetic in-situ leaching
- M0523 - Monitoring and control of hydrocyclones by use of convolutional neural networks and deep reinforcement learning
- M0519 - Broadening the opportunity for in-situ recovery of value from mineral deposits
- M0474 - Progressive Damage Mechanisms of Rocks Subjected to Cyclic Loading
- M0450, M0455 - Feasibility of electrokinetic in situ leaching
Page was last reviewed 11 June 2026