Experts explore decarbonisation of the mining sector

Experts stressed the need to decarbonise the mining sector to increase sustainability and address climate change concerns.

At the first edition of the Asharami Square conference in Lagos, they made the appeal, arguing that the mining sector contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and that implementing decarbonisation strategies can mitigate the impact of the sector’s activities on the environment while promoting long-term sustainability.

They further mentioned that decarbonising the mining sector is essential to mitigating climate change and ensuring the sustainable use of energy resources, and called for the adoption of cleaner technologies, energy efficiency and renewable energy.

Ford Foundation West Africa Regional Director Dr Chichi Aniagolu-Okoye said that despite Africa’s small share of global carbon emissions, the continent should focus on reducing carbon emissions as they have a significant impact on crops, weather and other key areas.
She mentioned that to reduce carbon emissions, Nigeria needs to move away from fossil fuels and switch to cleaner energy sources.

Asharami Energy Group Project Manager Wole Ajeigbe said Africa’s energy demand will continue to grow, driven by increased use of oil and gas. He reiterated that as energy demand grows, decarbonising the mining sector is essential to ensure sustainable development.

He added that African governments should create an investment-friendly environment, leverage available capital resources, attract and develop key competences for the energy future, and commit to increasing gas production as a key strategy for decarbonising the mining sector.