Evaluating environmental impact: The power of Life Cycle Analysis in MASTERMINE
By Stavroula Panagiotidou (STRATAGEM LTD)
Within MASTERMINE, the STRATAGEM team will conduct a Life Cycle Analysis for the five use cases. This analysis aims to comprehend and assess the environmental performance and impact of the product systems, encompassing the developed materials, manufacturing methods, energy and water consumption, as well as the respective end-of-life processes. The assessment will be conducted both before and after the installation of the MASTERMINE innovations.
But what exactly is Life Cycle Assessment or Life Cycle Analysis (LCA)?
Life Cycle Assessment is a comprehensive approach that evaluates the environmental impact of a product, process, or service from its inception to its eventual disposal. It involves assessing all stages of a product's life cycle - from raw material extraction, transportation, manufacturing, usage, and finally, recycling or disposal. By conducting an LCA, we gain valuable insights into the potential environmental burdens and identify opportunities to make our mining operations more sustainable and eco-friendly.
Advantages of Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) in mining
Within the MASTERMINE project, conducting a Life Cycle Analysis offers numerous advantages, empowering us to create a greener and more sustainable future for mining operations:
✅ Environmental impact reduction: LCA serves as a powerful tool to identify and pinpoint the most significant areas of environmental impact within the mining operations of our use cases. Armed with this critical knowledge, we can implement targeted measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions, minimising water consumption, and effectively managing waste generation. By addressing these hotspots, we take significant strides towards mitigating our ecological footprint.
✅ Sustainable material choices: With LCA, we can compare different materials and processes and select those that have lower environmental impacts. This empowers us to opt for sustainable alternatives and decrease our overall ecological footprint.
✅ Informed decision-making: Armed with comprehensive LCA data, we can make more informed decisions regarding our mining processes, infrastructure, and equipment, ensuring they align with our sustainability goals.
✅ Transparency and accountability: By openly sharing our LCA findings, we strive to foster transparency and accountability within the mining industry. We believe that knowledge sharing can inspire others to adopt greener practices and drive positive change on a broader scale.
With Life Cycle Analysis as a guiding compass, MASTERMINE embraces its role as a pioneer in sustainable mining practices. Through these advantages, we envision a future where mining operations coexist harmoniously with nature, paving the way for lasting environmental stewardship and responsible resource management. Together, we can shape a better world for generations to come.
