Mining related emissions continue to decline

The MCA Climate Action Plan-Progress Report 2023 released today shows that scope 1 emissions from MCA full member mining facilities reported into the safeguard mechanism declined by 9.3 per cent in FY22.

The report confirms that member emissions reported through the safeguard mechanism and the National Greenhouse and Energy Report scheme continued to decline during FY22 as the industry continued to make strong progress towards an ambition of net zero by 2050.

In the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting scheme (NGERs), MCA member’s scope 1 and 2 emissions fell by more than 7 per cent in FY22.

The report reaffirms and demonstrates the mining industry’s continuing focus on reducing emissions as it works towards an ambition of net zero by 2050.

The industry has made substantial progress in the three years since the MCA launched the Climate Action Plan while supporting Australian jobs, and royalties and taxes, to state and federal governments.

Having established a strong base, Australia’s mining industry will continue to progress climate action initiatives and report regularly on progress.

The report is the third annual report since the release of the MCA Climate Action Plan in 2020, and provides an update on the 10 actions identified in the Climate Action Plan, as well as an update on changes to the Safeguard Mechanism policy framework.

It also outlines the work industry is undertaking to develop and deploy low emissions technologies with more than 20 case studies showcasing company actions on the ground.

These case studies reflect the diversity of technologies and actions being undertaken by members to reduce emissions across their value chains.

They include progressing initiatives and innovations such as gravitational energy, mine electrification, climate planning, renewable energy, fuel swapping, carbon capture and storage, autonomous haulage and pumped hydro.

The third Climate Action Plan progress report was released during Minerals Week 2023, the MCA’s annual opportunity to engage with decision makers in Canberra.

The event provides a high-profile platform for the executive leadership of Australian mining to discuss, debate and develop the policies that create jobs, support investment and sustain the wellbeing of mining communities and the national economy.