Copper Mining, Water and the United Nations’ SDGs

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Anglo American spearheads the development of breakthrough technology for scalable water conservation

A fast-growing population of 780 million people around the world lacks access to clean water. Water scarcity proves one of the greatest challenges of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is thus a priority for the Copper Alliance® and its members. Mining is water intensive, particularly during the separation and transportation of ore and tailings. Anglo American, as one of the world’s largest miners, is uniquely poised to scale its conservation within the framework’s 2030 target.

The Challenge

The Atacama Desert region surrounding the Los Bronces copper mine in Chile is notoriously dry and located at one of the planet’s highest altitudes. With its declining ore grades and proximity to Santiago’s growing population of 6.3 million, the mine was drawing heavily on the local water supply. To reduce this environmental impact, Anglo officials developed a novel approach to recycle vast amounts of water.

After months of planning, Anglo upgraded its water transportation system, which moves water along a 56-kilometre (35 mile) pipeline from the Las Tortolas tailings dam, using an integrated automated circuit for recirculation.

The Technology

Central to this advancement is the “Pervasive Sensing” technology Anglo developed with partner Silixa following FutureSmart Mining™’s 2015 Open Forum on water. Pervasive sensing, which is the capability to deploy large numbers of sensors, link them to communication networks and analyze the collective data, is transforming many industries. In mining, networked sensors are used for remote operation, automation, health and safety, and exploration. In this application, the sensor is a fiber-optic circuit measuring mine water flows in real time and maximizing conservation at multiple points, with the ability to monitor a region equal in size to Lower Manhattan.

The cable—running without expensive parts or power—is more cost efficient and environmentally sound than the traditional devices to gage water-stressed areas at predetermined points, supporting better process control, water conservation and, ultimately, improved metal recovery.

The Result

Now, Los Bronces recycles more than 78 percent of the water it uses, a major increase from the 25 percent it was recycling in 2011. In 2016, 66 percent of the water used across Anglo American’s mines was recycled or re-used.

Anglo’s next goal is to increase the amount of recycled water across its operations worldwide by 50 percent before 2030.

“Mining is both data-rich and process heavy. This data-rich technology is within the process realm where value can be significantly higher and the benefits exponential.” – Donovan Waller, Group Head of Technology Development, Anglo American

Last year, this technology was honored at Mines and Money in London with an Outstanding Achievement Award for the Best Use of Smart Technology for Sustainability.

With approximately three-quarters of its assets in water-stressed areas, Anglo’s freshwater consumption reduction target presents a unique opportunity to grow the SDG framework at scale.

About the Copper Alliance®

The Copper Alliance® is a network of regional copper centers and their industry-leading members. It is responsible for guiding policy and strategy and for funding international initiatives and promotional activities. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the organization has offices in four primary regions: Europe and Africa, Asia, Latin America and North America. Copper Alliance® programs and initiatives are executed in more than 60 countries through its regional offices and country-level copper promotion centers.

About Anglo American

Anglo American plc is a diversified multinational mining firm based in Johannesburg, South Africa and London, United Kingdom, and is a major copper producer with four red metal mines in Chile.

About FutureSmart Mining™

Enabled by robust, cross-operational and stakeholder consultations, Anglo’s methodology is embedded in its FutureSmart Mining™ initiative, which applies cutting-edge technology and broad innovative thinking. This encompasses collaboration to ensure safer, more efficient and more sustainable mining while accommodating the needs of each host community.

To learn more on how Anglo American is re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives through FutureSmart Mining™, visit here.

Copper: The Resilient Infrastructure Solution for America

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Copper Mining, Water and the United Nations’ SDGs

Anglo American spearheads the development of breakthrough technology for scalable water conservation

A fast-growing population of 780 million people around the world lacks access to clean water. Water scarcity proves one of the greatest challenges of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is thus a priority for the Copper Alliance® and its members. Mining is water intensive, particularly during the separation and transportation of ore and tailings. Anglo American, as one of the world’s largest miners, is uniquely poised to scale its conservation within the framework’s 2030 target.

The Challenge

The Atacama Desert region surrounding the Los Bronces copper mine in Chile is notoriously dry and located at one of the planet’s highest altitudes. With its declining ore grades and proximity to Santiago’s growing population of 6.3 million, the mine was drawing heavily on the local water supply. To reduce this environmental impact, Anglo officials developed a novel approach to recycle vast amounts of water.

After months of planning, Anglo upgraded its water transportation system, which moves water along a 56-kilometre (35 mile) pipeline from the Las Tortolas tailings dam, using an integrated automated circuit for recirculation.

The Technology

Central to this advancement is the “Pervasive Sensing” technology Anglo developed with partner Silixa following FutureSmart Mining™’s 2015 Open Forum on water. Pervasive sensing, which is the capability to deploy large numbers of sensors, link them to communication networks and analyze the collective data, is transforming many industries. In mining, networked sensors are used for remote operation, automation, health and safety, and exploration. In this application, the sensor is a fiber-optic circuit measuring mine water flows in real time and maximizing conservation at multiple points, with the ability to monitor a region equal in size to Lower Manhattan.

The cable—running without expensive parts or power—is more cost efficient and environmentally sound than the traditional devices to gage water-stressed areas at predetermined points, supporting better process control, water conservation and, ultimately, improved metal recovery.

The Result

Now, Los Bronces recycles more than 78 percent of the water it uses, a major increase from the 25 percent it was recycling in 2011. In 2016, 66 percent of the water used across Anglo American’s mines was recycled or re-used.

Anglo’s next goal is to increase the amount of recycled water across its operations worldwide by 50 percent before 2030.

“Mining is both data-rich and process heavy. This data-rich technology is within the process realm where value can be significantly higher and the benefits exponential.” – Donovan Waller, Group Head of Technology Development, Anglo American

Last year, this technology was honored at Mines and Money in London with an Outstanding Achievement Award for the Best Use of Smart Technology for Sustainability.

With approximately three-quarters of its assets in water-stressed areas, Anglo’s freshwater consumption reduction target presents a unique opportunity to grow the SDG framework at scale.

About the Copper Alliance®

The Copper Alliance® is a network of regional copper centers and their industry-leading members. It is responsible for guiding policy and strategy and for funding international initiatives and promotional activities. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the organization has offices in four primary regions: Europe and Africa, Asia, Latin America and North America. Copper Alliance® programs and initiatives are executed in more than 60 countries through its regional offices and country-level copper promotion centers.

About Anglo American

Anglo American plc is a diversified multinational mining firm based in Johannesburg, South Africa and London, United Kingdom, and is a major copper producer with four red metal mines in Chile.

About FutureSmart Mining™

Enabled by robust, cross-operational and stakeholder consultations, Anglo’s methodology is embedded in its FutureSmart Mining™ initiative, which applies cutting-edge technology and broad innovative thinking. This encompasses collaboration to ensure safer, more efficient and more sustainable mining while accommodating the needs of each host community.

To learn more on how Anglo American is re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives through FutureSmart Mining™, visit here.

Cutting-Edge Technology Provides Enhanced Worker Safety

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ICA’s member companies have always maintained an ongoing commitment to the men and women who make up the copper industry workforce. Investments in new ways to protect those who serve in various capacities throughout the copper life cycle are yielding cutting-edge new technologies that revolutionize the industry.

Challenge:

Fatigue is often a problem for mine truck drivers. To combat this challenge, new technology is being employed to aid truck drivers, who have one of the most dangerous and important jobs at a mine.

Solution:

Modern-day mining continues to improve in terms of safety and environmental sustainability. The latest innovation to help bring this essential metal to the surface is brain wave technology. By employing a cutting-edge six-inch strip that gets fitted into the headgear of truck drivers, employers such as BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Anglo American are using brain wave technology to detect fatigue. This next-generation technology alerts drivers, supervisors and back office personnel about potential hazards, thereby providing improved monitoring, increased worker safety and a better bottom line.

Result:

According to BHP Chief Executive Officer Andrew Mackenzie, the program—currently deployed in 150 trucks at the Escondida copper mine in Chile—is expected to deliver as much as $12 billion in lower costs, improved output and safety gains. In addition to the clear safety advantages for drivers, the technology is expected to decrease sustaining costs by as much as a third. Further, findings are being used to improve road conditions and signage, characteristics that are impacting driver fatigue. Additional BHP global sites, including locations in Australia, are expected to utilize the exciting new technology.

Sustainable Transportation Solutions: Electric Vehicles

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Cars and buses exponentially expand opportunities and represent personal freedoms for individuals worldwide. As new and improved technologies continue to evolve, one element is emerging as essential to our collective automotive future—copper!

Challenge:

An ever-increasing global population, coupled with limited nonrenewable resources, is leading to innovative solutions and technologies across a variety of industries. Meeting the transportation needs of future generations in a sustainable and environmentally responsible way requires an increased reliance on materials and natural resources that are durable, malleable and—in the case of electric cars—capable of providing superior electrical conductivity.

Solution:

Technology improvements and increased affordability are the drivers behind an anticipated surge in electric vehicle sales over the next decade, according to new research commissioned by the International Copper Association (ICA). 2016 saw two million electric vehicles globally. This number is projected to reach seven million by 2025. A key element in production, energy storage and charging infrastructure for these new vehicles is copper. While an internal combustion engine vehicle utilizes roughly 20 to 50 pounds, or 9 to 22.6 kilograms (kg) of copper, the number for a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or battery electric vehicle ranges from 85 to 180 pounds (38.5 to 81.6 kg). Not surprisingly, the number grows for buses. Add in the necessary charging infrastructure, and copper becomes a major component in the success of this newly invigorated technology.

Results:

While electric vehicles are not a new concept, their previous success was hindered by advances in internal combustion engine technology, mass production and relatively inexpensive gasoline prices. The Toyota Prius—introduced in Japan in 1997 and worldwide in 2000—helped reinvigorate the electric car market and was followed by Tesla, the Chevy Volt and the Nissan Leaf. Thanks to the commercial success of these vehicles, coupled with the ability of the copper industry to supply the material crucial to batteries, wiring, and charging infrastructure, continued and expansive growth is anticipated for the electric vehicle market.

Copper Substitution Falls for Sixth Consecutive Year

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The International Copper Association (ICA) today announced the findings of the 2018 global copper substitution survey, conducted by specialist consultancy MetalsPlus. The survey estimates that net substitution of copper in 2017 fell to 225 kilotonnes (kt)—20 kt less than in 2016—marking the sixth consecutive annual decline. The level of substitution now stands at just 0.8% of the total market, compared to 2.0% in 2007.

The survey tracks global levels of copper substitution, as well as providing detail on its drivers. Of the results, Colin Bennett, Global Manager, Market Analysis and Outreach, ICA says: ‘The 2018 survey demonstrates concern over substitution is less evident than in former years. 2017 was the sixth consecutive year where the level of net loss to substitution fell, both as a share of the copper market and in absolute volume.’

Continental Comparison

As the largest demand market, Asia remains the continent with the highest volume of substitution. However, as a proportion of the market, substitution rates in the region are below the global average. Levels of substitution in Africa, Europe, Latin America and North America remained at a relatively low and stable level.

About the International Copper Association (ICA)

ICA brings together the global copper industry to develop and defend markets for copper and to make a positive contribution to society’s sustainable development goals. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., ICA has offices in four primary regions: Asia, Europe and Africa, Latin America and North America. Copper Alliance programs and initiatives are executed in nearly 60 countries through its regional offices. For additional information, please visit www.copperalliance.org.

 

Three Ways Copper Will Contribute to China’s New Energy Vehicle Growth

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The State Council of China developed the Energy-Saving and New Energy Automobile Industry Development Plan (2012 – 2020), which aims to reach both a production capacity of two million electric vehicles and a sales volume of five million electric vehicles by 2020. By 2025, this number could grow to seven million vehicles—or 20 percent of the total Chinese automobile market.

The expected explosive growth of electric vehicles, especially battery-powered electric vehicles, will benefit the copper industry and boost demand for the material in China and beyond in several ways.

Copper: Essential for electric-vehicle construction

The average small electric car uses about 40 kilograms of copper (compared to only 10 kilograms for a standard combustible engine vehicle), and an electric bus can use up to 70 kilograms of copper. Copper is an essential component to a diverse range of parts including motors, batteries, high-voltage cables and air conditioning and heat-exchange systems.

Additionally, copper’s excellent heat conductivity, as well as its relative lightweight, make it a top choice for motor design. Copper-rotor motors can significantly improve the driving performance and energy efficiency of vehicles, while keeping with lightweight trends.

Given the estimated growth of the electric-vehicle market to five million vehicles by 2020, China’s copper use may eventually exceed 300,000 tonnes from vehicle construction alone.

Copper: Integral to EV charging systems

To meet the growing demand for both battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles, China’s State Council issued the Guidance on Accelerating Construction of Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles in 2015. This guideline aims to build more than 12,000 charging and battery swapping stations and nearly five million decentralized charging piles across the country by 2020. Copper is a crucial part of electric-vehicle-charging systems—it can be found in transformers, cables and wiring.

Shanghai Brilliance Consulting estimates the planned development of EV-charging systems will generate a demand for 130,000 to 140,000 tonnes of copper. Together with the 300,000 tonnes of copper used in the vehicles themselves, copper use in the electric-vehicle industry could grow over 400,000 tonnes in China alone in 2020.

Copper: Facilitates green development in the EV industry and beyond through recycling

Copper products have a long life-span and are 100 percent recyclable. Therefore, using copper in electric vehicles can reduce the impact on the environment both during the life of the product and after it. Most copper materials found in electric vehicles can be readily recycled, and batteries (historically more difficult to recycle) can have the copper extracted and recycled through a relatively simple process. The China Automotive Technology and Research Center has estimated that copper extracted and recycled from electric vehicles could amount to between 120,000 to 170,000 tonnes by 2020. This recycled copper can then be repurposed for more electric vehicles or any number of alternative uses.