Mining Emissions Not a Major Source for Energy Transition Minerals

According to new research published by the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), mining for key energy transition minerals such as copper, lithium, and rare earth elements is not a major source of global greenhouse gas emissions. The ICMM's new Global Mining & Metals Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Dataset and accompanying insights report provide a comprehensive look at the emissions profile of the mining industry. The data shows that mining accounts for only around 4-5% of global GHG emissions, with the vast majority of emissions coming from other sectors like power generation, transportation, and agriculture. 'As the world transitions to a low-carbon economy, demand for minerals essential to technologies like electric vehicles and renewable energy is expected to grow significantly,' said Tom Butler, CEO of ICMM. 'This research demonstrates that mining these key materials is not a major driver of global emissions, and the industry is well-positioned to support the energy transition in a sustainable way.' The ICMM report highlights several factors that contribute to mining's relatively low emissions profile, including the capital-intensive nature of the industry, the use of energy-efficient technologies, and ongoing efforts to decarbonize operations. The organization says the findings should help provide perspective as policymakers and the public consider the role of mining in the energy transition. 'This data is important for having an informed discussion about the environmental impacts of mining,' added Butler. 'It shows that with the right practices and technologies, mining can be a critical enabler of the clean energy future we all want to see.'