Future of mining is Africa’s for the taking

Subject

The future of mining and its potential in Africa.

Significance

A 2017 World Bank study projects that the global transition to a low-carbon future will drive increased demand for the minerals and metals necessary to feed green energy and transport revolutions. Africa is home to many of these resources, which means the future is ripe with opportunity, but only if they are mined in a minimally invasive and environmentally sustainable manner.

Impacts

• Demand for coal and hydrocarbons will begin to deteriorate as low-carbon energy and transport alternatives become more viable at scale.
• Exploration budgets for future minerals and metals will expand; African countries with enabling policy environments will benefit most.
• New global supply chains will provide opportunities to pursue green industrialisation, connecting mining to clean manufacturing.
• Large investment firms' tilt towards environmental, social and good governance issues will put African clean mining on their horizon.