Editor's letter

Tools such as satellite sensing and machine learning are being used increasingly for real-time monitoring of tailings facilities. We give an overview of how this tech can support careful management of mine tailings to help prevent dam breaches and spills. 

We also speak to Laura Benger, non-executive chair of Australian charity Miners’ Promise, about the specialised help and care on offer to support miners’ families in the aftermath of workplace fatalities. Next, GHD’s Bob Kinnell explains why miners need to take a more strategic approach to water management in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Plus, we report on the latest trends and equipment from the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME), which celebrated its 30th anniversary this year.  

In commodities, we explore how the move towards ‘green’ iron and steel is impacting Australia’s iron ore industry. Although falling demand from China and a move away from traditional steelmaking processes is likely to have an impact short term, the long-term vision involves transforming Australia into a global hub for hydrogen-based steel production. GlobalData analysts also assess the significance of the recent sulphur discovery on Mars.

Caroline Peachey, editor