Erik Vlot from Weir in the Netherlands has hit the nail on the head when he emphasizes the critical importance of collaboration in tackling the colossal challenges posed by tailings management. The Global Tailings Review’s staggering figures reveal that there are approximately 8,500 tailings storage facilities (TSFs) worldwide, holding a whopping 217 cubic kilometers of tailings. To visualize that, imagine a 6-kilometer-high cube—now that’s a mountain of waste! And if that’s not alarming enough, the annual increase of 12.3 cubic kilometers means this issue is snowballing, making it one of the toughest nuts to crack in the mining sector today.
Historically, mining companies have operated in silos, often viewing each other as competitors. But the urgency of the tailings crisis is forcing a paradigm shift. There’s a growing recognition that these challenges are not isolated; they affect every mine, regardless of its location or ownership. As the demand for essential minerals surges—driven by the transition to a low-carbon economy—mining companies are realizing that collaboration isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity. By pooling resources and knowledge, they can tackle these industry-wide challenges more effectively and create solutions that benefit not just their operations, but the communities and ecosystems surrounding them.
The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) has laid down a roadmap for tailings reduction, revealing a mix of immediate and long-term solutions. Among these is coarse particle flotation (CPF) technology, which promises to enhance the recovery of coarser ore particles. This could significantly reduce the volume of tailings generated in the short term, while other innovative solutions may take a decade or more to mature.
Weir is stepping up to the plate, rethinking the long-held assumptions about tailings management. Their commitment to innovation is evident in the development of transformational tailings flowsheets that help miners rethink, reduce, and repurpose their tailings. What’s refreshing about Weir’s approach is its recognition that one size doesn’t fit all. Every mining operation has its own set of constraints—be it water, energy, carbon emissions, or existing infrastructure. Weir’s tailored solutions arise from a collaborative process where they consult with miners to understand their unique challenges. This isn’t just about pushing products; it’s about crafting a balanced assessment of various approaches to find the best fit.
The transformational flowsheets developed by Weir serve as a launchpad for exploring a wide array of tailings management options. They’re customizable, allowing operators to align solutions with their specific needs and objectives. This kind of flexibility is crucial as the industry navigates the complexities of sustainable mining practices.
As the mining sector grapples with the pressing issue of tailings management, the future looks to be one of increased collaboration and innovation. The stakes are high, but so is the potential for groundbreaking solutions that can reshape the landscape of mining for the better.