A new report from ABB, titled Mining’s Moment, reveals that 70% of mining leaders believe significant decarbonization can be achieved using existing technologies. The report, surveyed 412 industry leaders across 18 countries, reflecting growing optimism about meeting sustainability targets. The findings come as mining faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions while ensuring raw material supply for the green energy transition.
The survey highlights that 77% of respondents see electrification, automation, and digital technologies as key drivers for sustainable mining. Additionally, 53% anticipate a significant or complete transformation of their operations over the next five years, while 28% expect moderate evolution. Only 19% foresee incremental change, indicating a strong commitment to advancing sustainable practices.
Investment strategies are evolving as mining firms aim for long-term decarbonization. However, barriers remain: 44% of respondents cite limited expertise as a major challenge, while 46% identify potential disruptions to operations and production as risks to transformation. In response, 70% of mining leaders are committed to reskilling and training employees for decarbonization efforts.
The study emphasizes that electrification is central to mining’s sustainability strategy, with 91% of respondents considering it essential or integral to decarbonization efforts. However, 46% noted that potential disruptions to operations and production pose a challenge to sustainable transformation, highlighting the need for updated systems and processes. Moreover, 73% agreed that mining’s transformation requires a new approach to both technology and risk management.
Max Luedtke, Global Business Line Manager for Mining at ABB Process Industries said, “There is real excitement amongst business leaders about the role they are playing in supporting the green energy transition, and they are taking the issue of mining’s impact on our environment seriously. We see this in the successful roll-out and progress towards sustainability targets, the willingness to invest to reach these goals, and the availability of technology that can make real progress, now. However, we must not think it is job done. A significant minority are struggling to meet their goals. Our report outlines three key areas where investment can help mining businesses become more sustainable, step-by-step: investing in their people; investing in technology; and investing in their processes.”
This report is part of ABB’s Real Progress campaign, which emphasizes the role of technology in advancing both sustainability and productivity in mining. As demand for raw materials needed for the green energy transition grows, the mining sector faces increasing pressure to balance production with environmental impact. ABB’s survey reflects the industry’s readiness to meet these challenges, with 73% of respondents excited about mining’s crucial role in supporting green technologies. The findings emphasize that while progress has been made, continuous investment and innovation are needed to ensure the sector’s sustainable evolution.
