Editorial comment
We are undoubtedly living in a time of increasing complexity, in which the challenges in raw materials and energy supply are becoming ever more multifaceted. Mining plays a crucial role in realising the energy transition, which would be unthinkable without the availability of raw materials. In order to fulfill this important role, and at the same time operate in a more environmentally conscious way, new technological innovations in the areas of automation, digitalisation, and electrification are imperative for the mining industry.
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The spectrum of opportunities for technological innovation are manifold, but, in the end, I am convinced that breakthrough effects rather can be expected how meaningful and successfully the full suite of technologies will be developed, implemented, and integrated across entire mining operations; moving towards digitally connected, autonomous systems.
Even though technological innovations are indispensable, we should not forget that people must always remain at the centre of our considerations. Technological advances are crucial, but we need to ensure that mining becomes more sustainable without losing sight of the fact that it is people who will shape the current transformation, and contribute the necessary skillsets and competencies to make this transformation succeed. This is what we have defined as the human-centred climate smart mine.
Aside from the challenge of educating and training the next generation of miners that can adapt to the transformation the sector is undergoing and enabling them to shape the mining of the future, promoting collaboration and partnerships between companies, but also between industry and research, is, I believe, a critical factor for a truly sustainable future for the mining sector. Thus, to drive innovation, we need to create spaces where industry, research, and other stakeholders can meet, interact, collaborate, and learn from and with each other.
The importance of science and research for the development of new solutions should not be underestimated. Close cooperation with research makes it possible to respond effectively to the challenges of mining and to develop tailored innovative solutions. Trust between all parties involved is of great importance in this process.
To promote this kind of hands-on and industry-oriented exchange and the building of trust as well as to foster new partnerships, the Institute for Advanced Mining Technologies organises an international non-profit conference every two years. The High-Performance Mining Conference is characterised by a high level of participation and attendance from industry, including mining companies, OEMs, and technology provider from within and outside of Europe, along with representatives from academia, industry associations and public institutions. This year, the conference will take place on 7 – 8 September in Aachen, Germany, and will bring together approximately 200 participants from the international mining industry.
Events, such as the High-Performance Mining Conference, we believe make a valuable contribution to making mining more sustainable and future-oriented. By working together to harness the opportunities of technology and foster collaboration, we can positively shape the future of mining.
