Current status and prospects of green and low-carbon development in metal mining

To clarify the key pathways and future directions of green and low-carbon development in metal mining, this study comprehensively analyzes typical research and engineering practices both domestically and internationally, with an emphasis on carbon emissions and environmental impacts across the whole mining process. Based on literature review, case study, and technological pathway comparison, key technologies including green exploration, low-disturbance mining, clean electric power equipment, solid waste utilization, backfill mining, and intelligent management are systematically summarized. Practices of international mining companies such as BHP, Rio Tinto, and Vale, as well as leading Chinese enterprises, are also evaluated. The results show that metal mining is transitioning from individual energy-saving measures to an integrated framework featuring low-carbon energy structure, green mining process, electrified equipment, and digitalized management. Technologies such as clean energy substitution, electric equipment application, waste-free mining, and CO₂-mineralized backfill show strong emission-reduction potential. The study concludes that building a multi-technology synergistic system centered on low-disturbance mining technology and supported by intelligent and renewable energy technologies is a key pathway for achieving lifecycle low-carbon development in metal mining. The research findings are expected to provide references for green transition planning, technology selection, and policy making in metal mining.