The energy transition needs more mines and more metals at lower cost and with no environmental impact. CEMI’s MICA Network aims to improve mining industry outcomes globally through empowering innovators.
The Network focuses on improving critical outcomes in the mining industry by identifying and supporting innovators with solutions tailored to the sector’s challenges. The Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI) has partnered with six organisations across Canada, from British Columbia on the Pacific coast to Newfoundland on the Atlantic coast, to provide regional perspectives on innovation capacity and local needs.
The global imperative for metals and minerals
Three industrial sectors—transportation, infrastructure, and manufacturing—generate nearly 70% of all greenhouse gases. Their ability to transform and reduce emissions depends on access to significantly more metals and minerals. The energy transition to a low-carbon economy hinges on the mining industry’s ability to increase the supply of copper, nickel, lithium, graphite, and other critical minerals, necessitating new mines and enhanced productivity of existing ones.
Reducing environmental impact
To gain community support and obtain operating licenses, the mining industry must adopt technologies that significantly reduce long-term environmental impacts, especially in waste management. Solutions need to be cost-effective; mining must produce materials at prices that make future electricity-based technologies more affordable than carbon-based alternatives. Expensive metals and a lack of speciality minerals for batteries and magnets could delay the energy transition and jeopardise global CO2 reduction targets.
Targeting key themes for sustainable mining
The solutions supported by the MICA Network span a broad range of technical disciplines and address four main themes:
- Increase ore production at a lower cost
- Reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions
- Reduce long-term environmental impact
- Implement autonomous and continuous systems
Collaborative network for complex challenges
MICA turns to Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the mining service sector as primary solution providers, recognising their creativity and innovation across the economy. However, these SMEs face significant challenges, including resource acquisition for product development, opportunities for field trials, and securing necessary investments for expansion.
The mining industry’s challenges are multifaceted, often requiring a combination of new technologies and techniques. The MICA Network fosters collaboration among over 100 SME members, increasing opportunities for partnerships and innovation. This network approach also benefits mining companies, allowing them to identify suitable technologies and solution providers more efficiently.
Government support and rigorous selection process
Supported by the Canadian Federal Department of Innovation Science and Economic Development, the MICA Network received $30m over five years to accelerate the commercialisation of innovative solutions. Through an objective assessment and selection process, nearly 50 SME projects were awarded funding from almost 500 submissions. Industry experts and an independent committee evaluated applications based on technological merit, project completion capacity, and commercialisation potential.
Despite the high quality of submissions, the MICA Network could not financially support all applicants. However, it continues to seek applications from various innovative sectors, encouraging the incorporation of cross-industry techniques into the mining supply chain.
Building global partnerships
The MICA Network is forging relationships with mining R&D and innovation-focused organisations worldwide, understanding the specific needs of the mining industry in different regions. The mining industry is global, and so are the challenges it faces in meeting future demands and addressing climate change.
Transforming the future of mining
Ultimately, the MICA Network aims to help transform the global mining industry, ensuring it can meet the demands of the future while addressing the urgent challenge of climate change. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices, MICA is poised to lead the way in creating a more efficient and environmentally responsible mining sector.
