Global Scans · Mining · Weekly Summary

• [New] The inaugural African Mining Week 2026 affirmed its position as the definitive platform to accelerate investment, technology adoption, and sustainable growth in Africa's mining sector. African Mining Week 2025
• [New] In August, DOE announced $1 billion of funding opportunities for projects to develop and scale up mining, processing and manufacturing technologies for critical minerals. / USA PRG
• [New] One study from Carnegie Mellon University estimates that data centers and cryptocurrency mining could lead to an 8% increase in the average U.S. electricity bill by 2030, potentially exceeding 25% in the highest-demand markets of central and northern Virginia. Educational Technology and Change Journal
• [New] The top 7 global mining innovations of 2026 are driving efficiency, reducing environmental impact, enhancing ethical traceability, and meeting social licensing requirements for generations to come. Farmonaut
• [New] By 2026, the Polymet Mining Tesla initiative will not only fuel the growth of green transportation but will also show how mining operations can be both sustainable and innovative, elevating industry standards for generations to come. Farmonaut
• [New] Over 70% of new Zambian copper mining operations in 2026 are expected to implement sustainable mining practices. Farmonaut
• [New] South American lithium mining is projected to supply over 60% of global demand for EV batteries by 2026. Farmonaut
• [New] With cutting-edge mining and environmental platforms maturing rapidly in 2026, satellite-based insights are transforming sustainable operations at mines like Greenbushes. Farmonaut
• [New] Supply chain transparency: Blockchain traceability will not just be a compliance measure - it will be a source of competitive advantage for mining companies worldwide. Farmonaut
• [New] Underground gold and copper mining tech investments are projected to surpass $15 billion globally by 2026. Farmonaut
• [New] Bullion River's 2026 gold mining plan aims to restore 75% of disturbed land using innovative environmental practices. Farmonaut
• [New] As we step into 2026, the uranium mining sector is experiencing a historic resurgence. Farmonaut
• [New] The significance of brine mining, ocean brine mining, and lithium brine producers is set to intensify as we enter 2026 and beyond. Farmonaut
• [New] Mining diversification represents Botswana's strategic response to changing global economic conditions and the need for sustainable development models that maximise natural resource value whilst creating inclusive growth opportunities. Discovery Alert
• [New] Growing demand is anticipated to require US$5.4 t of investment in mining and metals by 2035, but exploration budgets fell to US$12.5 b in 2024, from US$12.9 b in 2023. MIT OpenCourseWare
• [New] Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese have inked a deal for critical mineral and energy dominance in a new partnership that will tip billions into mining projects in the US and Australia. Australian Broadcasting Corporation
• [New] As we advance into 2026, the cost of mining lithium can no longer be calculated in purely financial terms. Farmonaut
• [New] As environmental and financial scrutiny of lithium mining intensifies in 2026, satellite-driven monitoring is becoming a linchpin for compliance, resource optimization, and transparency. Farmonaut
• [New] Recovering lithium from used batteries (urban mining) is growing into a vital supply segment by 2026. Farmonaut
• [New] Carlin Gold Mine implemented seven technological innovations by 2026, making it a leader in sustainable gold mining globally. Farmonaut
• [New] Stronger Regulatory Expectations: The move toward net-zero mining and stricter U.S. and global standards in 2026 and beyond will push Carlin and the gold sector to innovate even further. Farmonaut
• [New] By 2025 and looking toward 2026 and beyond, the Carlin mine sets new industry standards in gold extraction, environmental stewardship, and digital transformation, underpinned by substantial investment in advanced mining technologies. Farmonaut
• [New] As of 2026, Chapada stands at the forefront - an industry benchmark for sustainable mining, environmental management, and community development. / Brazil Farmonaut

Last updated: 31 October 2025