How can digital technologies make Europe’s mining industry more efficient, sustainable and competitive? After three and a half years of research, development and real-world testing, the Horizon Europe DINAMINE project has demonstrated how innovative solutions can transform mining operations, from underground extraction to mineral processing and resource recovery.
In a new article, project coordinator NGI (Norwegian Geotechnical Institute) takes a closer look at the technologies developed and validated by the DINAMINE consortium, highlighting their potential to support Europe’s transition towards smarter, more resource-efficient and environmentally responsible mining.
Through pilot demonstrations in Norway and Portugal, DINAMINE has explored how automation, advanced sensing technologies, real-time data integration and digital mine management can help mining operators improve productivity, optimise resource consumption and reduce their environmental footprint.
Among the project’s key achievements are the successful demonstration of semi-autonomous drilling technologies, the development of integrated digital tools for mine monitoring and decision-making, and innovative solutions for real-time material analysis and process optimisation.
Beyond technological innovation, DINAMINE has also addressed the economic and environmental dimensions of mining, investigating pathways towards lower-emission operations and exploring opportunities to transform mining waste into valuable secondary resources.
But what happens when these innovations move beyond research and into real mining environments?
The NGI article offers insights from project partners into the results achieved, the challenges addressed and the opportunities ahead, particularly for small and medium-sized mining operations seeking to embrace digital transformation.
As DINAMINE concludes its journey, its results provide a valuable foundation for the future of European mining, demonstrating how digitalisation can contribute to strengthening Europe’s critical raw materials supply chains while supporting sustainability and industrial competitiveness.
