Mining tomorrow: balancing sustainability, safety and demand 

The global mining sector is entering a critical phase, with demand for critical minerals expected to nearly triple by 2030 and quadruple by 2040, according to the latest projections from the International Energy Agency.

 As the world grapples with this mineral demand explosion, a significant shift has occurred in the United States.

On March 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production,” invoking the Defense Production Act to boost domestic production of critical minerals.  

This bold move aims to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign sources, particularly China, which currently dominates the global supply chain for many critical minerals. The order includes sweeping initiatives to expedite permitting, open federal lands for mining projects, and incentivise both private and public capital investments in the sector. 

Yet, as nations and industries rush to secure critical minerals, the mining industry finds itself confronting two pressing challenges: sustainability and safety. The sector must balance the surging demand with environmental stewardship and worker protection, ensuring that the pursuit of these essential resources does not come at the cost of ecological damage or human lives. This delicate equilibrium will define the future of mining in an increasingly resource-hungry world. 

The clean energy revolution has placed unprecedented pressure on mining operations worldwide. Lithium demand is projected to increase by over 40 times by 2040 in the Net Zero Emissions scenario, while copper requirements are set to double. Rare earth elements, indispensable for wind turbines and electric motors, are experiencing similar surges in demand. This growth underscores the urgent need for efficient extraction methods and sustainable practices that minimise environmental impact. 

In response, mining companies are increasingly adopting innovative technologies to meet these demands.  Electric vehicle (EV) fleets are emerging as game-changers reducing emissions in mining operations. This shift is exemplified by Pakistan’s Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC), which recently deployed EV mining trucks, significantly lowering both operational costs and environmental impact. 

While electrification leads the charge, the industry is adopting a multi-pronged approach to sustainability. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between traditional energy sources and renewables. As the world’s largest LNG exporter, the United States is at the forefront of this transition, supporting mining operations globally in their decarbonisation efforts. This strategic integration of cleaner fuels complements the electrification drive, showcasing the industry’s commitment to aligning with global decarbonisation goals.  

Such initiatives highlight the industry’s potential to align itself with global decarbonisation goals, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to sustainability that combines electrification, cleaner fuels, and innovative extraction methods.  

While sustainability garners attention, safety remains an urgent concern. Fatal accidents in mining operations, such as those reported at the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea, expose systemic issues in worker protection. Methane explosions, mudslides, and collapsing shafts are tragically common, compounded by weak enforcement of safety regulations and inadequate training. Occupational diseases like silicosis and lung cancer further underscore the human cost of unsafe mining environments. 

Addressing these challenges requires a dual approach: stricter regulatory oversight and investment in modern safety technologies. Governments must enforce robust safety protocols while incentivising companies to adopt advanced monitoring systems that detect hazards before they escalate into disasters. 

As the mineral industry faces rapid and almost overwhelming growth, platforms for dialogue and collaboration are becoming increasingly vital. The challenges posed by sustainability, safety, and surging demand require collective solutions, making opportunities for companies, ministers, and industry professionals to exchange ideas more important than ever. In this context, Pakistan is stepping forward with its upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF), scheduled for April 8-9 in Islamabad. 

This event aims to attract global stakeholders to unlock Pakistan’s vast mineral wealth, while showcasing policy reforms designed to modernise the sector.  By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and investors, this represents a transformative opportunity to address pressing challenges while driving economic growth through responsible resource management. 

The future of mining hinges on balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and worker safety. Companies must embrace technological innovation not only to boost efficiency but also to safeguard lives and ecosystems. Governments must enforce stringent regulations while fostering international cooperation to diversify supply chains away from geopolitical risks. 

As demand for critical minerals continues to grow, the mining industry has an opportunity—and a responsibility—to redefine itself as a cornerstone of sustainable development. By prioritising safety, embracing green technologies, and forging global partnerships, the sector can secure its place in a decarbonised world while ensuring its operations benefit both people and planet. 

In this pivotal moment for mining, sustainability is not just an option—it is a necessity.

— Cyril Widdershoven is the founder and CEO of investment consultancy Verocy.