Editor's letter

Our August issue examines how technology, processing and resource strategy are reshaping mining beyond the mine face. Automation is a recurring theme, from the challenges of making an entire autonomous fleet think as one system to the role of robotics in building the mine of the future. We also examine how better coordination can break down silos between autonomous operations, while drones, LiDAR and AI are transforming mine rehabilitation in Brazil.

Elsewhere, we look at Indonesia’s evolving nickel challenge as processing takes precedence over mining, and we examine four reasons the West has lost ground in critical minerals. We then turn our focus to cobalt, with an analysis of urban mining as a potential domestic source and an interview with the founder of Mukuba Minerals Forum on why the DRC wants greater control over its geological future.

Our MINE Australia supplement considers the Genesis-Vault deal and Australia’s changing gold landscape, the role of automation in Western Australia mineral exploration, and how autonomous mining is transforming the country’s workforce.

Alejandro Gonzalez, Editor