Open to the world : the European Union's Horizon programme for research and innovation : an exploration and mining technology workshop at the PDAC convention in Toronto

The European Union held a workshop on exploration and mining technology at the PDAC convention in Toronto. European Commission and government representatives highlighted the importance of international cooperation on raw materials, as key enablers for the green transition, of evidence-based decision-making, and of doing the right investments in the next few years. Horizon 2020 projects presented their key results, the benefits they can bring, and their experiences working with civil society to build trust in the extractive industry. They gave examples of new geophysical exploration techniques and field-augmented reality for geological models, improved approaches to managing water and safe tailings, innovations in zero waste mining and processing and piloting electrification and automation of mines. A panel on mineral exploration discussed how technology projects can engage civil society in the application of the technologies. Another panel on mining and mineral processing discussed approaches for using research and innovation in mining to build trust in the extractive industry. One of the main issues highlighted in the panel discussions was the hurdle of a bad reputation gained by mining companies, resulting from their past performances. Technologies reducing the footprint of mining activities have great potential in improving this reputation, but technology optimism without considering the human element can backfire and again undermine trust in the sector. It is therefore important to recognise what can realistically be achieved by a given innovation, and carefully consider what a technology application means for the different people concerned. It is also important to consider how these innovations are communicated to the wider public. The academic and research world is well positioned to engage with youth, local communities and civil society, and is perceived as understanding and contributing to social responsibility. Mining and exploration companies, in contrast, risk being seen as self-serving, and therefore need to have greater focus on demonstrating the good practices that emerge from research and innovation in this sector. Conveying the message that the mineral industry is an enabler for the green transition can attract young professionals, being increasingly value-driven. The cross-disciplinary character of projects in the Horizon programme can also attract people who have not previously been in contact with the industry.