Sustainable Water Mining Solutions for Asia Pacific at IMARC 2024
As the pressure mounts to preserve freshwater resources in the face of rising industrial demands, Asia Pacific’s mining sector stands at a pivotal crossroads.
Leading the charge for sustainable change, Black & Veatch is leveraging its industry expertise to champion water-efficient practices across mining operations. With a century of experience in critical human infrastructure, Black & Veatch is bringing its insights to the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) 2024, aiming to reshape water management in the mining industry.
IMARC 2024, running from 29-31 October in Sydney, will host Black & Veatch’s unique session on water management, addressing the industry’s role in building a sustainable future. From water-saving strategies to infrastructure planning, Black & Veatch is ready to tackle the complex challenges facing mining and community water needs.
The Case for Sustainable Water Management in Mining
The Asia Pacific region, known for its diverse mining operations, is also a significant water consumer. In Australia alone, the national science agency, CSIRO, reports that mining and related industries account for around 20% of the country’s total water use. With growing environmental concerns and water scarcity challenges, sustainable water management in mining has become more than a trend—it’s a necessity.
Black & Veatch has been at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure solutions, combining expertise in water recycling, desalination, and energy-efficient designs to reduce the carbon footprint and operational costs of water management in mining. Mick Scrivens, Black & Veatch’s Vice President and Director for Australia Pacific, notes: “Proven and readily available water solutions, such as desalination and water recycling, can be designed and engineered to achieve greater energy efficiency, and reduce operational costs and carbon emissions for Asia Pacific’s mining sector, offsetting significant strategic risks. Partnering to implement these solutions will benefit the environment, local communities, mining companies, and the industry overall.”
Black & Veatch’s IMARC 2024 Water Management Session
With sustainability taking centre stage, Black & Veatch’s dedicated session at IMARC 2024 will bring together industry leaders and Black & Veatch experts to discuss practical approaches for sustainable water management across the mine lifecycle. Led by Mick Scrivens, this session will dive into innovative solutions that address water consumption, planning, and lifecycle management to secure a resilient water future for mining communities.
The session will focus on integrating water management across all mine stages, considering everything from initial project design to ongoing operation. It will explore:
- Affordable and Targeted Investments: Highlighting the technologies and approaches that provide the best value for sustainable water use.
- Stakeholder Inclusion: Emphasising the importance of involving local communities and government bodies to ensure sustainable outcomes.
- Enhanced Resilience: Implementing strategies that improve the reliability and adaptability of water resources for mining operations, especially in water-scarce areas.
As Black & Veatch experts share their knowledge and experience, the session promises to provide actionable insights for attendees, helping the industry move towards a more water-efficient future.
Key Topics to Be Addressed at IMARC 2024
In addition to the water management session, Black & Veatch’s leaders will contribute to several other discussions at IMARC 2024, offering insights into the broader infrastructure challenges facing mining today.
- “Where’s the Water Coming From? The Importance of Infrastructure Planning and Delivery”
- Speaker: Brady Hays, Senior Vice President and Executive Managing Director, Fuels and Natural Resources, will be interviewed by Corinne Cheeseman, CEO of the Australian Water Association.
- Focus: This session will delve into the complexities of planning and executing water infrastructure for mining, a critical aspect of ensuring sustainable and efficient operations.
- “How to Sustainably Manage Water in Mining within Australia”
- Speaker: Garrick Field, Solutions Director, Industrial Water and Mining, will lead a panel featuring representatives from industry heavyweights BHP, Legacie, ICMM, and the Government of Western Australia.
- Focus: Panellists will share their perspectives on sustainable water management practices tailored to the Australian mining sector, addressing regional challenges and regulatory considerations.
- “Getting Projects Out of the Ground and Off the Ground Faster”
- Speaker: Jonathan Dunham, Associate Vice President and Managing Director, Mining and Metals, will participate in this panel discussion.
- Focus: Speeding up project initiation and development, ensuring that mining operations can meet water and environmental standards from the outset.
Each session will shed light on essential areas of mining infrastructure development, offering strategies to streamline processes and strengthen the industry’s commitment to sustainability.
Expertise in Water Management Solutions
Globally, Black & Veatch has established itself as a leader in delivering water and energy solutions across diverse sectors, including utilities, government projects, and industrial developments. Their experience in Australia, in particular, is marked by partnerships that have delivered high-quality, resilient water solutions.
One notable project, the Bundamba Advanced Water Treatment Plant, stands as a testament to Black & Veatch’s capabilities. This award-winning facility was instrumental in addressing Australia’s water shortage challenges during the millennium drought. The project showcases the power of advanced water treatment technologies, reinforcing Black & Veatch’s role in securing water resources for industries and communities alike.
The Future of Water Management in Mining
With a century of experience behind it, Black & Veatch continues to lead the charge for sustainable infrastructure. The company’s approach is rooted in integrating water and energy solutions, leveraging new technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. This multi-disciplinary approach allows Black & Veatch to deliver a full spectrum of project services, from design to execution, ensuring a seamless and sustainable experience for clients.
At IMARC 2024, Black & Veatch’s presentations will reflect this commitment to innovation. By focusing on a collaborative approach that brings together industry players, government bodies, and local communities, the company aims to foster partnerships that support sustainable water and infrastructure development. For Asia Pacific’s mining sector, this holistic perspective is key to addressing the region’s water challenges and building a more resilient future.
An Optimistic Outlook for Asia Pacific’s Mining Sector
The future of mining in the Asia Pacific region hinges on sustainable water practices, and Black & Veatch’s involvement at IMARC 2024 underscores the company’s commitment to driving meaningful change. As mining companies embrace advanced water solutions, there’s a promising path toward safeguarding freshwater resources while enhancing operational efficiency.
By promoting collaboration, investment in proven technologies, and community engagement, Black & Veatch is setting the stage for a future where mining and sustainability go hand in hand. Their efforts serve as an inspiring example of how the mining industry can pivot towards more responsible practices, ensuring the long-term well-being of both the environment and the communities it serves.
