The mining and metals industry must adopt a fresh leadership approach to tackle the challenges of 2025, including volatile supply chains and potential metal shortages. Organisations that prioritise innovation and adaptability will be best positioned for success.
This insight comes from the seventeenth edition of Deloitte’s Tracking the Trends report, which outlines the major trends and obstacles facing mining and metals firms in the coming year.
Deloitte Australia’s mining and metals leader, Nicki Ivory, emphasised the transformative phase the industry is undergoing, urging companies to integrate digital technology and sustainable practices.
“Success in 2025 will be driven by how smart we are in every aspect of operations—smart in how we use technology, smart in developing teams, smart in crafting environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies, and smart in business practices. It’s this intelligence across all fronts that will lead to optimal decisions being made,” Ivory stated.
She further noted that artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly significant role in mining operations, particularly in exploration and sustainability efforts.
“By merging geoscience data, accelerating target identification, and enhancing safety through predictive analytics, it will reduce costs and improve timelines. AI will also enhance sustainability reporting with accurate data, helping track and improve environmental performance, ensuring accountability to sustainability goals.
“Through embracing this change, we can shape a resilient, efficient and sustainable future for the mining industry, driving long-term success and positive global impact,” Ivory explained.
Additionally, AI will play a crucial role in sustainability efforts, providing accurate reporting tools that help monitor and improve environmental performance while ensuring compliance with sustainability goals.
