Editorial comment
In the middle of 2024, an exciting project was announced which embodies the spirit of ‘sustainable mining’ – the Stobie Open Pit Mining Project. This proud partnership between Thiess, Vale Base Metals, the United Steelworkers union, and four local First Nations partners – Aki-eh Dibinwewziwin Limited Partnership (ADLP), Z’gamok Construction LP, Wahnapitae First Nation Environmental Department, and Eshkaa Niibiish-Day Inc (ENDI) – is a shining example of what can be achieved when industry leaders and Indigenous communities collaborate. The project also demonstrates that Thiess is serious about its ongoing expansion into the North American market.
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For those of us in the sector, ‘sustainable mining’ is more than just a buzzword; it represents a fundamental shift towards a more respectful, responsible, and inclusive approach to resource development. It is a path being forged by many forward-thinking companies across the industry, and it is essential for meeting the world’s ever-increasing pace of change towards zero or low carbon emissions economies.
Thiess is committed to being an active contributor to this global energy transition, guided by our vision “to harness the power of people and technology to drive sustainable change.” This is not just a corporate slogan, it inspires a 14 000 strong workforce across our global operations everyday. Thiess’ early adoption of autonomous mining, and ongoing efforts to decarbonise our mining fleet through electrification and alternative fuels, are good examples of how we strive towards this vision.
Sustainable mining recognises that long-term success hinges on environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and robust governance. It is about minimising environmental impacts through reduced emissions, responsible water management, and effective land reclamation. It is about creating shared value for all stakeholders, including local communities, through job creation, economic development, and support for local businesses. It is about building trust and transparency through open communication and ethical practices.
Central to this transformation is the growing recognition of the importance of Indigenous partnerships. Respecting Indigenous rights, incorporating traditional knowledge, and ensuring equitable benefit-sharing are not just ethical imperatives, but also essential for securing social license and achieving long-term project viability. In the case of the Stobie project, Thiess’ experience in fostering meaningful Indigenous participation over decades in Australia was a key factor in achieving the contract award from Vale.
The reality is that the mining industry has a compelling story to tell about the progress being made in these areas. We need to do a better job of sharing these success stories. While isolated incidents of irresponsible practices may occur, they do not reflect the significant strides being made by most of the industry towards a more sustainable and equitable future. Moreover, it is important to remember that it is the mining industry that is responsible for sourcing the minerals that are critical to the world’s transition to green energy – something the wider public is starting to understand.
The global energy transition requires vast quantities of responsibly sourced minerals, and sustainable mining is essential for meeting this demand. By embracing innovation, prioritising sustainability, and building strong partnerships, the mining industry can play a vital role in creating a brighter future for all. Thiess’ Stobie Open Pit Mine Project with Vale, the union, and Indigenous business leaders is one example of this potential, and it serves as a model for future projects around the world. It is time to share these stories and demonstrate the positive impact that sustainable mining can have on the world.
