Research from the University of Nottingham and Terra Motion showed that the Brumadinho dam collapse could have been predicted based on ground movements in the weeks prior to the disaster. Now, that research will have real-world application with Geospatial Insight launching a service to monitor ground movements in and around tailings dams to provide early warnings of potential structural failures. We find out more about the work and how it could improve mine safety.

Also in the next issue:  we investigate how deep sea mining exploration licenses granted by the UK Government to UK Seabed Resources are riddled with inaccuracies, based on outdated legislation, and were granted for a length of time beyond what UK law permits - which could make them unlawful according to new analysis from Greenpeace and Blue Marine Foundation. In addition, we dive into the case of Petra Diamonds, and how its reputation as an ethical miner was shattered by a recent lawsuit alleging violence and human rights abuses at its Williamson mine in Tanzania by a security firm contracted to protect the area.

Plus, we track the trials and tribulations of mining in the Philippines, examine what synthetic diamonds mean for the market, and investigate claims of a crucial lack of critical minerals.