Title: Future of metal mining: Sixteen predictions

Authors: Lena Abrahamsson, Bo Johansson, Jan Johansson

Addresses: Department of Human Work Science, Lulea University of Technology, 971 87, Sweden. ' Department of Human Work Science, Lulea University of Technology, 971 87, Sweden. ' Department of Human Work Science, Lulea University of Technology, 971 87, Sweden

Abstract: The world|s metal mining industry faces a number of challenges which must be anticipated and managed wisely. The prevailing recession will force the industry to further rationalisations that require both new technologies and new organisational forms that supports both high productivity and good working conditions. Based on what was said at three international mining conferences, the authors of this paper present 16 predictions for the mining industry of the future. In one or another way the mining industry of today must address them all.

Keywords: metal mining; future mining; deep mining; lean organisation; automation; Kyoto protocol; CO2; carbon dioxide; safety; work; globalisation; skills.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMME.2009.027259

International Journal of Mining and Mineral Engineering, 2009 Vol.1 No.3, pp.304 - 312

Published online: 18 Jul 2009 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article