There can be no doubt that digital is integral to mining ’ s future . But when it comes to maximising efficiency , it ’ s more complex , with automation , AI , VR , AR and drones all jostling for technological supremacy .
According to a 2017 white paper by the World Economic Forum ( WEF ), digitalisation in the mining industry has the potential to deliver over US $ 425bn in shareholder , customer and environmental value in the 10 years to 2025 , which is equivalent to 3 to 4 % of total industry revenue over that period .
Beyond balance sheets , the potential benefits of digitalisation in mining could see global CO2 emissions reduced by 610 million tonnes and over 1000 lives saved with enhanced safety measures . Moreover , the demands arising from the energy transition , heightening demand for commodities , are placing unprecedented demands on productivity efficiencies .
For the potential to be realised , there is consensus that ‘ old mining ’ processes have to go – instead replaced by tech-oriented , pit-to-port supply chains , with data being as pivotal as the commodities themselves .
In its most recent report ‘ Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining and metals in 2022 ’ business consultancy EY sees digital and innovation as having been key tools in helping mines improve productivity and they expect to see greater use of data science , modeling and scenario planning .
Mining businesses are looking to shake up their operations massively using digital technology , with seven out of ten viewing it as an urgent priority according to Shell ’ s
“ With our private mapping capabilities , we enable mining companies to unleash the power of their location data in many important use cases ”
GINO FERRU GENERAL MANAGER EMEAR AND SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT AT HERE TECHNOLOGIES
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