The copper mining industry faces a significant challenge as demand surges due to the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy, leading to a forecasted need of 50 million metric tonnes annually by 2035. Despite this demand, traditional mining techniques are becoming inadequate, facing declining ore grades and rising costs. Innovative solutions, such as the use of engineered microbes for copper recovery, are necessary to bridge the gap between supply and demand, indicating a shift from conventional practices to more progressive methodologies.
According to BloombergNEF, the world needs over $2 trillion in mining investment by 2050 to meet electrification targets, as copper demand is reaching historic highs.
As a scientist leading a team using engineered microbes for copper recovery, I've seen how cross-disciplinary thinking can unlock entirely new mining innovations.
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