A new ABB report, Mining’s Moment, highlights progress toward sustainability and decarbonisation in the mining sector, alongside expectations that operations will transition to a greener future. The findings come from a study that surveyed 412 mining executives across Asia, Europe, North America, South America, South Africa and Australia. The research was conducted by an independent market research firm.
Globally, mining executives expressed optimism about the sector’s role in supplying resources for green technologies. Among Australian respondents, 82% were particularly enthusiastic about these opportunities. The survey also points to constraints affecting how quickly decarbonisation plans can be implemented.
Transformation expectations and gaps against decarbonisation objectives
The survey results show that half of the executives anticipate significant or complete transformation of their operations within the next five years. At the same time, 32% reported that they are behind on their decarbonisation objectives. This gap reflects difficulties in turning decarbonisation plans into operational change.
Only 11% of respondents said they are confident they will meet their 2030 decarbonisation goals. Confidence increases for longer-term targets, including those set for 2050. ABB Australia’s Stuart Cowie, head of process industries, said the decarbonisation transformation in mining is underway.
Electrification, automation and digitalisation priorities
The report underscores the role of an integrated approach to decarbonisation that includes electrification, automation and digitalisation. Among Australian respondents, 76% agreed with this integrated approach. The survey also includes specific investment intentions related to haulage fleets.
35% of Australian respondents plan to invest in electrifying their haulage fleets by 2026. By 2030, 73% plan to electrify at least 25% of their fleet. Vehicle electrification is viewed as a key lever for meeting decarbonisation targets.
Barriers to vehicle electrification and infrastructure readiness
The report describes Australia as a frontrunner on vehicle electrification, with 79% of respondents saying it is crucial for achieving decarbonisation targets. It also identifies barriers that could slow implementation across mining operations. These include capital investment and infrastructure limitations.
57% of respondents cited capital investment as a barrier to progress. 53% pointed to inadequate infrastructure as another constraint. The findings indicate that technology deployment depends not only on equipment decisions but also on supporting systems.
Incremental implementation at mine sites
An incremental approach to decarbonisation is presented as a more feasible path for mining companies. This model involves making gradual improvements and trialling new technologies before committing to larger investments. ABB’s collaboration with Gold Fields at the Granny Smith gold mine is cited as an example.
At Granny Smith, digitalisation and operations management systems are being implemented as part of the transition. The report frames this as part of a step-by-step shift rather than a single large-scale change. It also highlights technology work beyond fleet electrification.
Fast-charging trolley-assist and other emissions-reduction technologies
The report notes ABB’s fast-charging trolley-assist solutions for haul trucks, which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%. It also references ABB hoisting solutions that provide a zero-emission alternative to traditional haul trucks. In underground settings, ABB’s ventilation-on-demand system is described as contributing to emissions reduction.
Cowie emphasized that the mining industry is changing in ways intended to reduce environmental impact while supporting resources for the green technology transition. The report indicates that mining is increasingly recognized as part of global decarbonisation efforts rather than only as a source of environmental harm.