Without mining, society’s current way of life would be unsustainable. Nor could we continue evolving towards more sustainable modes of consumption, production, and energy management practices. Raw materials such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements are indispensable for the so-called Energy Transition. However, many of these raw materials necessary for a sustainable future are challenging, as the European Union depends on third countries for many of them. Despite efforts to find substitutes for these raw materials or to implement recycling, extraction through the mining sector remains essential to achieving the objectives of the Energy Transition. In this context, technological innovation emerges as a fundamental pillar for a more efficient and responsible mining industry, capable of improving the sustainable supply of these essential resources.
The employment of drones is increasingly common in sectors such as security, defence, traffic, and agriculture. It is also prevalent in the mining sector, which is currently at the vanguard of innovation with the ultimate objective of responsible management of mineral resources. Within the sector, underground operations present themselves as an interesting system due to the great potential for environmental protection that they demonstrate.
Thanks to the incorporation of various types of cameras, drones can offer solutions related to visual inspections, facility mapping and 3D modelling. These cameras can provide data at a much higher speed than traditional measurement systems. This permits significant time savings in planning processes. In addition to speed, the precision in data collection improves decision-making, optimizing extraction.
One of the most interesting solutions for underground mining is the use of drones as systems for measuring and monitoring gases. It is worth mentioning that mines possess systems for measuring multiple gases to ensure breathable and safe atmospheres for workers. This is especially important after a blast; generally, the composition of gases is monitored, and ventilation processes are applied until the elevated safety conditions are ensured. However, employing drones alongside this monitoring enables ventilation times to be shortened by taking measurements in hard-to-reach areas. That is why the employment of drones in gas measurement can shorten times, improving the efficiency of extractive activity and guaranteeing a safe working environment for mining personnel. This integration of drone technology not only accelerates operations but also elevates the standards of safety and sustainability in modern mining.
In conclusion, mining is consolidating itself as a strategic industry, not only for its fundamental role in the supply of raw materials for the energy transition and the maintenance of our lifestyle, but also for its constant commitment to safe, responsible, and environmentally respectful practices. The integration of technologies such as drones is a clear example of how innovation contributes to optimizing processes where resource extraction and sustainability proceed hand in hand.
All of this was presented by the Fundación Gómez Pardo at the I International Conference On Sustainability and Climate Change with the presentation “Use of drones as a tool to improve raw material extraction in underground mines.” You can watch the full presentation in the video below.
