New Tech, New Deal: Mining policy options in the face of new technology

The document examines how the Fourth Industrial Revolution's technologies—specifically digitization, big data, and automation—are altering the global mining industry. While these technologies can improve climate efficiency and safety, they risk reducing local employment and procurement, which are critical value streams for host communities. The report explores potential policy elements to replace the traditional mining 'deal' to protect livelihoods and marginalized groups.

• The adoption of technologies from the Fourth Industrial Revolution in the mining sector is leading to more efficient, climate-friendly operations and a reduction in workplace accidents.
• Technological transitions in mining may decrease the number of employees and the volume of local goods and services purchased, creating acute livelihood risks for those living nearest to mine sites who have limited re-employment options.
• Employment and procurement are identified as the most significant forms of value a mine provides to host communities, particularly in poor and less diversified economies, acting as a form of payment for environmental impacts and resource exploitation.

APA

Cosbey,, I. R. (2021). New Tech, New Deal: Mining policy options in the face of new technology. International Institute for Sustainable Development. https://www.iisd.org/publications/new-mining-technology-policy-options

Chicago

Cosbey,, Isabelle Ramdoo,Aaron. New Tech, New Deal: Mining policy options in the face of new technology. International Institute for Sustainable Development, 2021. https://www.iisd.org/publications/new-mining-technology-policy-options.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |last1=Cosbey, |first1=Isabelle Ramdoo,Aaron |title=New Tech, New Deal: Mining policy options in the face of new technology |publisher=International Institute for Sustainable Development |date=13 September 2021 |url=https://www.iisd.org/publications/new-mining-technology-policy-options |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{cosbey2021new, author = {Cosbey,, Isabelle Ramdoo,Aaron}, title = {{New Tech, New Deal: Mining policy options in the face of new technology}}, institution = {International Institute for Sustainable Development}, year = {2021}, month = sep, url = {https://www.iisd.org/publications/new-mining-technology-policy-options}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }