Mintek celebrates 90-year legacy of environmental stewardship on World Environment Day in South Africa
In celebration of World Environment Day and its 90th anniversary, Mintek continues to reaffirm its enduring commitment to sustainable practices across the mineral and metallurgical value chain.
This commitment is deeply rooted in addressing South Africa's unique environmental challenges, encompassing mining land rehabilitation, water scarcity mitigation, energy efficiency, and the development of cutting-edge technologies that minimise environmental impact across various industry activities.
For many decades, Mintek has pioneered advancements in mineral processing, extraction, and post-mining support. Today, its legacy of environmental stewardship is more evident than ever through initiatives that rehabilitate derelict mines, conserve water, and promote sustainable energy use, all while tackling the complex environmental landscape of South Africa.
Abandoned mines, a significant legacy of South Africa's mining history, pose environmental and safety risks. Mintek's comprehensive rehabilitation programmes address these hazards by closing mine shafts, restoring land to a safe and stable condition, and preventing contamination, particularly of scarce water resources.
This not only contributes to ecological recovery but also ensures the well-being of surrounding communities. In the past year alone, Mintek closed 44 mine shafts and completed two asbestos rehabilitation sites as part of the Derelict and Ownerless Mines Rehabilitation Programme in partnership with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.
Water conservation is another critical priority in South Africa, where water scarcity is a pressing issue. Mintek's advanced water management techniques minimise usage, prevent contamination, and promote responsible use of this precious resource.
A prime example is a new water recycling system, which integrates the innovative cloSURE® Technology for treating acid mine drainage, a prevalent problem in South Africa. This treated water is then repurposed for irrigation, providing a valuable resource for the agricultural sector.
Mintek is equally committed to energy conservation and the transition to renewable sources. Recognising the energy-intensive nature of the mining industry and South Africa's reliance on coal, the company invests in cutting-edge technologies and renewable energy sources to enhance efficiency, reduce its carbon footprint, and contribute to a cleaner energy future for the nation.
Mintek's expertise also extends to the development of high-purity battery precursors for the growing renewable energy sector, essential for South Africa's energy transition. The company collaborates with industry partners to optimise technology for extracting and purifying these materials, with ongoing research focusing on rare earth element extraction and separation from ores and waste.
Mintek also supports artisanal miners in Barberton with the iGoli™ process, a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gold extraction methods, addressing mercury pollution, a significant environmental concern in the region.
"Mintek's dedication to safeguarding our planet, particularly in the face of South Africa's unique environmental challenges, is unwavering," said Dr Molefi Motuku, CEO of Mintek. "We believe that sustainable practices are not just a responsibility but a necessity for the future of mining and our world. On this World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to pioneering solutions that protect the environment, address local challenges, and benefit society."
Mintek invites partners, stakeholders, and the global community to join in its mission to protect the environment and uphold the principles of #GenerationRestoration.