Future of metal mining: Sixteen predictions

Abstract

The world's metal mining industry faces a number of challenges which must be anticipated and managed wisely. The prevailing recession will force the industry to further rationalisations that require both new technologies and new organisational forms that supports both high productivity and good working conditions. Based on what was said at three international mining conferences, the authors of this paper present 16 predictions for the mining industry of the future. In one or another way the mining industry of today must address them all.