Mining technology has been advancing at a rapid pace over the past few decades, with new technologies and processes being developed to improve efficiency and safety. As the industry has evolved, so too have the roles and responsibilities of those working in it. This article will explore how mining technology is advancing industry roles, and…
SQM, the world’s second-largest lithium supplier, is resuming operations in northern Chile following the clearance of roadblocks by local communities, as confirmed by a company representative on Monday. The removal of the final blockades, in place for nearly a week, allows the gradual return to normal operations. Community concerns arose over plans to increase lithium…
Deep seabed mining focuses on recovering critical minerals from the ocean floor. These resources—such as manganese, nickel, cobalt, copper, and rare earth elements—are essential for many modern technologies, including defense systems, batteries, smartphones, and medical devices. Because these minerals are used across so many industries, securing steady access to them is increasingly seen as an…
Glencore and Trafigura are urging Asian smelters to agree to lower spot prices for the conversion of mined copper into metal this year, challenging the traditional industry benchmarks that are considerably higher, according to three sources familiar with the situation. Traditionally, the industry has relied on annual benchmarks, known as treatment charges (TCs), for contracts…
Lithium Americas Corp. (TSX:LAC) (NYSE:LAC) is expanding the resource at its Thacker Pass lithium project in Nevada, USA, and is awaiting a final permit decision from the state of Nevada. The company announced that it has completed a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) for the project, which shows that the Thacker Pass project has the potential…
Brazil’s government has recently announced a significant measure to enhance transparency and combat tax evasion in the gold market. Starting January 1, 2024, the country will require the use of electronic tax receipts for all transactions involving the buying and selling of gold. This move is part of Brazil’s broader efforts to modernize its tax…
DeepGreen Metals, a deep-sea mining company specializing in extracting battery metals from the ocean floor, has taken a significant step forward in its mission. Recently, the company secured a substantial cash injection from Swiss investment firm, MetalOil, providing the necessary funds to accelerate its exploration and development efforts. This investment brings DeepGreen one step closer…
The United Nations’ statement at the COP26 (26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties) regarding mining has sparked significant attention and debate. The statement, “Enough of mining…we are digging our own graves,” reflects growing concerns about the environmental and social impacts of mining activities. This article will elaborate on the context and implications of…
First Quantum Minerals is one of the world’s leading copper producers, and the company has been hit hard by the recent strike and lower copper prices. The strike, which began in October 2018, has caused a significant disruption in copper production and has had a major impact on First Quantum’s operations. The strike began when…
In recent times, the copper mining industry has found itself on a rollercoaster ride, with the price of this essential metal experiencing a significant decline. Often referred to as “OPEC on crack,” copper mining’s resemblance to the petroleum cartel’s influence over oil prices is striking, but the reasons behind the recent price fall are more…