By Thobeka Makume
South Africa’s Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has hailed the country’s mining sector as a “sunrise industry” that is transitioning from its historical dependence on gold to a diversified powerhouse in minerals critical for green energy. Speaking at the Mintek @90 Conference in Sandton on Monday, Mantashe highlighted the role of Mintek, South Africa’s national research and development body focused on mining and metallurgy, in leading this transformation.
“Mintek continues to focus on conducting research that will not only have impactful outcomes for the industry but drive technological innovations that will have a positive societal impact, stimulate economic growth, reduce unemployment and inequality, as well as eradicate poverty in South Africa,” said Mantashe.
With collaboration from industry and research institutions, Mintek is pioneering advancements that bolster the mining sector’s role in the modern economy, from processing platinum group metals (PGMs) to exploring new technologies in green energy. South Africa, home to the world’s largest reserves of PGMs, manganese, chrome, and rare earth minerals, is well-positioned to play a critical role in the global shift toward sustainable and renewable energy resources.
The Rising Demand for Green Minerals
As the world intensifies efforts to reduce carbon emissions, the demand for minerals used in clean energy technologies continues to soar. Mantashe underscored the role of platinum group metals in renewable energy, as the drive for low-carbon solutions bolsters demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and other green technologies. “The need for the world to transition from high carbon emissions to low carbon emissions has increased the demand for ‘green’ minerals,” he said. South Africa, as a major producer of manganese and chrome, is poised to support the global automotive and construction sectors as they adopt green technologies.
In this context, Mintek’s research and technological expertise are instrumental. By focusing on mineral value addition near production sites, Mintek positions itself as a leader in the clean energy economy, which could have significant national, continental, and global implications.
Mintek’s Role in South Africa’s Critical Minerals Strategy
Mantashe pointed out that, while there is no universal consensus on what constitutes “critical minerals,” Mintek’s development of a critical minerals strategy offers guidance for responsible exploration, processing, and export of these resources across South Africa and Africa. This strategy aims to ensure the responsible management of resources critical to the renewable energy sector.
With global demand for rare earth elements, lithium, and other essential minerals expected to increase, Mintek’s research agenda aligns with South Africa’s ambition to become a key player in the international supply chain of green minerals. This approach also supports South Africa’s objective of economic growth through sustainable practices, with an emphasis on job creation and the alleviation of poverty and inequality.
Combatting Illegal Mining and Ensuring Environmental Sustainability
Illegal mining has long plagued South Africa, leading to environmental degradation and economic losses. Addressing this issue, Mantashe announced that Mintek is actively involved in closing abandoned mine sites and restoring derelict mines, which helps deter illegal mining operations. “Mintek is playing a role in tackling ownerless and derelict mines by closing the holes that were left behind, thereby helping in combating illegal mining and trading in ores,” he noted.
Mintek’s efforts extend to enhancing mining efficiency and sustainability. With a focus on environmental sustainability, the entity is developing technologies aimed at minimising water and energy use, reducing environmental pollution, and promoting the reclamation of mining waste. This initiative aligns with South Africa’s broader commitment to achieving sustainable development goals within the mining sector.
However, Mantashe admitted that funding constraints challenge Mintek’s ability to fully realise its goals. Despite these financial limitations, visible progress has been made, reflecting the government’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Collaboration as a Key to Success
The success of South Africa’s mining sector, which contributes at least 6.3% to the country’s nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP), relies heavily on collaboration between government, the private sector, and academia. Mantashe emphasised that partnerships are essential to driving innovation and addressing the mining sector’s complex challenges. “By working together, we can leverage diverse expertise and resources, thus ensuring that our collective efforts are aligned with the industry’s pressing needs,” he said.
These collaborations are crucial as South Africa navigates the transition to a sustainable mining industry that supports economic growth, technological advancement, and environmental protection. Through joint efforts, stakeholders can better respond to market demands, embrace sustainable practices, and contribute to the sector’s long-term resilience.
Mintek’s Path Forward: Innovation and Excellence
Looking ahead, Mintek is poised to continue its legacy of innovation in mineral technology. Mantashe commended Mintek’s commitment to advancing extraction, refining, and processing techniques, which are pivotal in overcoming current and future industry challenges. “For the next 90 years, Mintek is poised to continue its trajectory of innovation and excellence in mineral technology,” he said, recognising the entity’s contributions to the sector over the past nine decades.
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