Advancing toward sustainability: The emergence of green mining technologies and practices

Abstract

This study comprehensively evaluates the integration and effectiveness of green mining technologies within the mining sector, specifically focusing on mitigating the environmental impact of traditional mining practices. The primary goal is to establish a sustainable mining model that significantly reduces energy consumption and minimizes ecological disturbances. To achieve this, the study employs a mixed-method approach, integrating quantitative data analysis from monitored mining sites and qualitative insights from industry experts. Key parameters include energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and reductions in chemical use. The findings reveal that effective integration of green mining technologies leads to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy consumption, and improved waste management compared to traditional methods. Specifically, the use of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources in mining operations has resulted in decreased carbon emissions and energy usage across studied sites. The research concludes that green mining practices, when supported by robust technological integration and regulatory frameworks, not only enhance environmental sustainability but also boost economic efficiency within the mining industry. This study recommends increased investment in the research and development of green technologies and calls for tighter regulatory oversight to ensure the widespread adoption and optimization of these practices.