The mining sector plays a critical role in the global energy transition by supplying essential minerals like cobalt, lithium, and copper. These minerals are pivotal to the production of batteries and renewable energy technologies. However, there is a growing imperative to manage the environmental impacts of mineral production. This includes taking significant measures to curtail greenhouse gas emissions and reduce water use. In terms of water, this essential resource remains a critical component of the extraction process for active mines.
However, extracting and moving water around a mining operation is energy-intensive and can contribute to carbon emissions. Longer-term water remediation is also required even after mine operations wind down. Managing water is essential but also expensive. That’s why, now more than ever, mining organizations are embracing solutions that help reduce water usage, make water remediation more efficient and preserve water quality during and after usage to protect communities neighboring a mining facility at large.