Key Points
- ICMM commits to cutting diesel emissions in underground mines.
- New DPM guide promotes consistent health and safety practices.
- Zero-emission mining vehicles expected to roll out before 2030.
New steps to shield underground mine workers from diesel particulate matter (DPM), a dangerous pollutant associated with major health hazards, including cancer, have been announced by the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM).
ICMM commits to cutting diesel emissions in underground mines
Stronger DPM management procedures will be implemented across member firms, according to the commitment, which was made public in a statement to Mining Weekly on Wednesday, October 11. This initiative seeks to close gaps in the industry and advance uniform safety procedures.
“Safeguarding the health of employees in underground mines requires effective DPM management. Comprehensive efforts, such as the use of low-sulfur fuels, sophisticated ventilation systems, high-grade safety gear, strict maintenance procedures, and the switch to zero-emission equipment, can help achieve this, according to ICMM.
 The guidance ensures that mining companies implement consistent and efficient strategies to decrease worker exposure to DPM by providing an organized framework.
Cleaner, safer vehicles initiative drives zero-emission haul trucks
The Cleaner, Safer Vehicles (ICSV) campaign, started by ICMM in 2018, is expanded upon by the new DPM promise. In order to produce next-generation mining vehicles and modernize current fleets, the program encourages cooperation between ICMM member businesses, original equipment manufacturers, and technology providers.
BHP CEO and chair of the ICMM ICSV advisory committee Mike Henry stated, “We’re now anticipating the availability of zero-emission haul trucks before 2030 – a shift from the previous expectation of 2040 – reflecting significant progress.”
Henry praised ICMM members for exhibiting leadership by joining the new project.
Rohitesh Dhawan, President and CEO of ICMM, emphasized that the new actions demonstrate the organization’s dedication to mining communities’ health and safety.
“These actions demonstrate each ICMM member’s dedication to achieving zero harm while promoting the health and safety of our communities and individuals. They will hasten the modifications required to protect those who work on our sites and, hopefully, serve as the catalyst for the broad implementation of these solutions outside of the ICMM membership,” Dhawan stated.
ICMM seeks to lower worker exposure while encouraging industry-wide improvements in health and safety by mandating that member companies implement DPM management plans. The goal of achieving “zero harm” at mining sites includes the implementation of zero-emission technologies and the most recent developments in DPM control techniques.
Major international mining firms like African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American, AngloGold Ashanti, Barrick, BHP, Glencore, Gold Fields, and Sibanye-Stillwater are among the members of ICMM.
Important trade associations like the World Gold Council, International Chromium Development Association, International Manganese Institute, Mining Industry Associations of Southern Africa, and Minerals Council South Africa are among the associate members.
