Recent research conducted by Grigory Yu. Boyarko from the National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University sheds light on the current state and future prospects of Russia’s copper mineral resource base. Published in the journal ‘Горные науки и технологии’ (Mining Science and Technology), this study provides a comprehensive assessment of Russia’s copper reserves, which are crucial for both domestic production and global supply chains.
The research highlights that Russia is home to 25 copper provinces and approximately 150 significant copper deposits, with an estimated total of 102.7 million tons of balance reserves and forecast resources. This presents a significant opportunity for growth in copper production, which reached 1,147 Kt in 2021. Upcoming mining projects could potentially increase annual production by an impressive 635 to 1,053 Kt, translating to a 55-91% rise over the 2021 figures.
Boyarko notes, “The largest copper reserves are concentrated in copper-nickel and copper-porphyry formations, which together account for over half of the total reserves. This indicates a strong foundation for future production, especially as new technologies emerge.” The study emphasizes that the Norilsk-Kharayelakh, Kodar-Udokan, and Urals provinces are key players, holding a substantial share of the nation’s copper resources.
One of the most compelling aspects of the research is the identification of underexplored areas with promising potential for new deposits. The East Tuvinian and Okhotsk-Chukotka provinces, for example, are highlighted as regions where exploration for porphyry copper has intensified, suggesting that these areas could yield significant discoveries. As Boyarko elaborates, “Exploration efforts in these provinces could lead to the unearthing of large porphyry copper deposits, which are vital for meeting the increasing global demand for copper.”
The findings also point to the potential for innovative mining techniques to unlock smaller deposits that have previously been overlooked. New underground leaching technologies could turn previously unviable copper sandstone deposits in the Pre-Ural and Donetsk provinces into commercially viable resources. This evolution in mining technology is crucial, especially as the demand for copper continues to surge, driven by the green energy transition and advancements in electronics.
With current reserves projected to last at least 47 years under optimal extraction conditions, the future of copper mining in Russia appears promising. However, the study also highlights challenges, particularly in regions like the North Caucasus, where high reserve security is coupled with low production levels.
As the mining sector stands on the brink of potential expansion, Boyarko’s research offers a roadmap for strategic development, ensuring that Russia can maintain its position as a key player in the global copper market. The implications of this study are significant for investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders who are looking to navigate the evolving landscape of mineral resource extraction.
For more insights on this topic, you can visit National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University.
