The importance of materials, minerals & mining in modern society
Six organisations (CMA(UK), IOM3, IQ, MAUK, MPA and MPQC) have signed an open letter to UK university leaders setting out the essential role of materials, minerals and mining in modern society.
The Critical Minerals Association (CMA (UK)), Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3), Institute of Quarrying (IQ), Mineral Products Association (MPA), Mineral Products Qualification Council (MPQC) and Mining Association of the UK (MAUK) have jointly written an open letter to UK universities to provide evidence-based information about the key role of materials, minerals and mining in daily life and the transition to a low-carbon, resilient and resource-efficient society.
The signatories have come together to support informed decision-making and to shine a light on the need for a high-quality education and training pipeline for a skilled, responsible and sustainable materials, minerals and mining workforce.
As global demand for the resources required for modern life – including for our homes, transport systems, healthcare and clean-energy technologies – continues to rise, moving to decouple economies from reliance upon virgin resource use and towards a more circular economy will be crucial. The letter highlights that in the short- to medium-term, however, this will not be sufficient. As extraction of resources will continue to play a role in meeting society’s demands, it is vital that it is done in a responsible way that considers environmental, carbon and social impacts.
The letter continues that this will only be possible if we can supply enough people who have the required skills, education and training, with access to pathways into the industry and awareness of the employment opportunities available.
MAUK’s President Andrew Fulton CEng FIMMM said, “For the UK’s mining sector to establish, demonstrate and lead global best practice standards in environmental, social and governance (ESG) and the achievement of broader sustainability, the education and training of skilled professionals is a necessary investment. It is so very important that all generations develop a clear understanding of the connection between consumer products and the mining industry, and how they can use this understanding to play a meaningful role in tackling climate change. To enhance this, we must all embrace our national value for open, transparent and objective debate.”