The mining sector’s transformation towards sustainability and technological innovation took centre stage at two of North America’s largest mining conferences.
The Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) MINEXCHANGE 2025 in Denver and the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) 2025 convention in Toronto highlighted the industry’s focus on critical minerals, economic shifts, and supply chain security.
Jerome Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Railveyor, who attended both events, emphasised the pivotal moment facing the industry.
“The industry is being challenged to rethink how resources are extracted, processed, and transported,” he noted.
At PDAC, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced plans to expedite development of Canada’s Ring of Fire region, positioning it as a cornerstone for Ontario’s economic security.
Concurrently, Canada’s federal government reinforced its commitment to the sector, with Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson emphasising Canada’s openness to business in strengthening global supply chains for critical minerals.
The federal government also announced a two-year extension of the 15 per cent mineral exploration tax credit, injecting US$110 million into the sector to accelerate project development.
SME MINEXCHANGE discussions centered on the growing role of digital twin technology and simulation modelling in optimising material handling.
Mining companies are increasingly relying on real-time data and AI-driven analytics to improve efficiency, reduce operational risks, and lower costs.
PDAC 2025 shifted focus to bringing new projects online faster while maintaining high environmental and social standards.
The surge in demand for critical minerals needed for the energy transition has put pressure on supply chains to keep pace.
Tas Mohamed, CEO of Railveyor, highlighted the urgency to bring new projects online, emphasising that speed must be balanced with sustainability and operating effectiveness.
“The industry is embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to ensure we can deliver the minerals needed for the energy transition without compromising productivity and a return on investment,” Mohamed stated.
Northern Ontario is emerging as a focal point for this transformation, with significant investment and momentum in mining innovation.
The challenge now lies in responsible execution to ensure projects move forward efficiently while upholding responsible mining practices.
As the mining industry continues to evolve, the discussions at SME MINEXCHANGE and PDAC 2025 underscore the critical role of efficient operations and optimised material movement in the sector’s future success.
