Introduction
You and I know that without mining, the world as we know it would cease to exist. Many people outside the mining industry may not fully appreciate the significance of metals and minerals in sustaining their way of life. From the cars we drive to the smartphones we use, mined materials are essential to modern living. Mining isn’t just about extracting resources; it’s about powering economies and enabling innovation. With the global mining industry expected to reach a value of nearly $1.86 trillion by 2022, with the increasing demand for minerals for power generation and renewables technology, its impact on our daily lives is undeniable.3
Our CEO, Rob Tyson, often emphasises that “mining is essential for mankind, and everything around us is either grown or mined.” This statement rings especially true when considering the everyday items we rely on, many of which would not exist without the resources provided by mining. As the world moves towards a greener future, the demand for minerals necessary for renewable energy is rising, further underscoring mining’s pivotal role.
In this article, we will discuss the everyday items that rely on mining, highlighting the essential role this industry plays in our lives. Our aim is to educate the wider community on why mining is indispensable to modern society and how it contributes to a sustainable future.
Everyday Items and the Mining Connection
Many aspects of modern life depend on materials extracted from the earth. Yet, the connection between these resources and the items we use daily often goes unnoticed. Here are some examples that illustrate the importance of mining in our everyday lives:
The average electronic device contains more than 35 minerals.2 Smartphones, computers, and other gadgets rely on gold, silver, copper, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements to function. These minerals are critical for the production of semiconductors, batteries, and other essential components. Copper, in particular, is a key player due to its excellent conductivity, which is crucial for wiring and electronic components.
The cars we drive depend on a range of metals, including lead and zinc. The roads we travel on are made from materials like limestone, bitumen, and gravel. Additionally, the steel, copper, and aluminium used in constructing our homes are all products of mining. Copper’s role in this context is significant, as it is used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and even in radiators and air conditioning systems due to its superior heat conductivity.
Whitegoods, such as refrigerators and washing machines, contain minerals like carbon, silicon, and chromium. Copper is also present in household appliances, including in wiring and components, due to its ductility and conductivity. Its use extends to air conditioners, heating systems, and other essential home equipment.1
Even something as simple as food storage relies on mined materials. Tin and aluminium are essential for canning, while minerals like chlorine and iodine are key components in cleaning products. In medicine, uranium is used in certain cancer treatments, highlighting mining’s role in healthcare.1 Copper’s antimicrobial properties also find applications in medical devices and hygiene products, such as handrails and faucets.
After gold is mined, approximately 63% is used in jewellery, 21% in coins, and 15% in electronics.2 Despite being one of the oldest metals unearthed, with copper artefacts dating back to 8,700 BC, gold remains a vital resource today. Its durability and versatility make it invaluable across various industries.
The Future of Mining in a Greener World
As the world embraces carbon neutrality and renewable energy, the demand for minerals required to support this shift is higher than ever. Copper, for example, is crucial for renewable energy systems, including solar panels and wind turbines. Despite its modern applications, copper is far from new; it was one of the first metals unearthed, with evidence of its use dating back over 5,000 years.4
Australia exemplifies mining’s economic importance. As the biggest contributor to the nation’s GDP, the mining sector was responsible for 10.4% of the national GDP between 2019 and 2020. During this period, resources and energy exports reached $221.2 billion in value, highlighting mining’s significant role in the global economy.5
Conclusion
Mining is more than just an industry; it is the backbone of modern civilisation. From the technology that connects us to the infrastructure that supports our daily lives, the products of mining are all around us. As we move towards a more sustainable future, the importance of mining will only grow, driving innovation and supporting the transition to renewable energy.
Understanding the vital role mining plays in our everyday lives can help us appreciate the industry’s contributions and its impact on the world. Next time you pick up your smartphone or drive down the road, remember that these everyday conveniences are made possible by the materials mined from beneath the earth’s surface.
We believe it’s important to contribute to improving the brand and perception of mining. Through our articles and our mining podcast, we aim to highlight the industry’s critical role in society, while also supporting the recruitment and development of top talent to drive the industry forward.
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