As part of their series of public lectures called Global Conversation (they feature open discussion between academics, leading experts and the audience), the University of Exeter, in partnership with CIM MES Vancouver, is pleased to present:

Kip Jeffrey

Head of Camborne School of Mines and First Quantum
Minerals Professor of Mining Education
Exeter EX4, United Kingdom

who will deliver a presentation on:

Mining: Is Bigger Always Better?

Abstract: Mining supplies most of the raw materials that underpin our way of life – around 50 billion tonnes of products are mined per year with global industrialization and a growing population driving greater demand. Centuries of exploration and production has seen the majority of mineral deposits depleted with concentrations at much lower grades than in the past. The mining industry uses ‘economics of scale’ to make such mines viable and as a consequence mines get larger, ore-grades deteriorate and more waste is produced under these extreme conditions. This trend has been fueled by high commodity prices over the last 20 years but this solution may be breaking down; mining projects are becoming too big to fail, too big to finance, and as the necessary scale of future projects is seen as increasingly environmentally unacceptable, too big to build. The industry and stakeholders are starting to think about how mining can change this trajectory.

New mines, often built at costs of up to US$20 billion, are now deploying global data centres. These centres monitor mining operations in real time across the globe. The industry is re-evaluating how smaller higher-grade deposits could be exploited while upholding the aim of creating lower impact mines. While recycling, urban mining, dematerialisation and circular economy principles will be part of the solution, mining will still have an essential role in the way we seek to improve the life experience of a 9 billion strong world population as is predicted by 2050. Mining is on the cusp of a new era where smarter and more intelligent mining will be developed, and where bigger is not necessarily better.

Following the presentation, there will be an opportunity to ask questions to an expert panel featuring Garth Kirkham, Immediate Past President of the Canadian Institute of Mining.

BIO: Unique industry supported strategic role to undertake research and other collaborative activites developing new forms of mining education, talent management, and community engagement in the international mining industry.

Collaborating closely with First Quantum Minerals in deploying evidence-based solutions to creating enhanced opportunties for national staff in new mines on a global basis. Kip Jeffrey is currently working on strategic initiatives in Zambia, Finland, Kazakhstan and Malaysia.

Thursday, 20 October 2016
6:00 – 8:00pm (presentation to start at 6:30pm)
(refreshments will be provided)

Vancouver Lookout (also known as Sears Tower)
555 W Hastings St, Vancouver

Seminar is complimentary and seats are limited. Register by Monday, October 17 to secure your place. Please RSVP by completing the following online booking form if you are interested in attending. This is also an excellent networking opportunity and there is no charge to attend.

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