The Minearc project, an initiative focused on enhancing collaboration and knowledge exchange in the mining sector, specifically regarding critical raw materials, aims to bolster sustainable and responsible mining practices. This effort is driven by the increasing demand for critical raw materials essential for clean energy transition technologies such as renewable energy production, the battery industry, and electric vehicles.
Supported by the United States Department of State, Minearc is a collaborative endeavour involving a consortium led by the Oulu Mining School at the University of Oulu, Finland, with partners including the Technical University of Luleå (LTU), Sweden, and Mining Finland. The partnership was unveiled on February 5, 2024, during the Mining Indaba event in Cape Town, South Africa, which focuses on the African mining sector.
The project will commence with cooperation workshops in April 2024, followed by visits during the summer. Over its three-year duration, Minearc aims to establish an active platform for communication and networking. This platform will facilitate the sharing of experiences, best practices, knowledge, opportunities, and challenges related to the production of critical raw minerals.
The Nordic countries, known for their rich ore potential concentrated in the north, have long been recognized for their expertise in sustainable mining. The Minearc collaboration seeks to export this Nordic know-how to sustainable mining practices, emphasizing the sector's role in addressing global challenges without overlooking environmental and social impacts. "A broad understanding of the sector's role in solving global challenges without ignoring environmental and social impacts is required from all actors and new talents," states Saija Luukkanen, Professor and Head of Oulu Mining School.
Furthermore, Minearc aims to facilitate technical exchanges for delegations from selected beneficiary countries in Africa and elsewhere to Sweden and Finland. The program will include tailored classroom training, site visits to mining and processing facilities, and meetings with relevant stakeholders. Round-table discussions and virtual workshops will focus on the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of critical raw mineral production. Topics will cover best practices in sector management, regulation, governance, and the promotion of responsible and sustainable mining practices. Participants' capacity will be enhanced to establish metrics and monitor benefits at all levels, from national governments to local communities.
This comprehensive approach is designed to offer a holistic view of leading practices in the mining sector, emphasizing the importance of informed decisions through quality, competitive, and transparent investments.
Källa: Oulu Mining School.