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Current issue 5/2024

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Elisabeth Clausen
Director at Institute for Advanced Mining Technologies (AMT), RWTH Aachen University

Editorial

As we navigate the intersection of digital transformation, environmental sustainability and evolving workforce dynamics, the mining industry faces both significant challenges and remarkable opportunities. One such opportunity lies in increasing diversity and advancing the inclusion of women in the sector. Although we’ve seen progress, the journey toward a truly inclusive and diverse industry is far from complete.

According to International Women in Mining (IWiM), women made up about 15 % of the global mining workforce in 2023. Within the leadership ranks of the top ten mining companies, women’s representation stood at 16 %. While these figures show a slight increase over the past few years, they also underscore the persistent underrepresentation of women.

Why does diversity and inclusion matter so much? Studies consistently demonstrate that diverse teams are more productive, creative and innovative. They excel in problem-solving and decision-making and have access to broader networks and markets, which improves reputation and employee engagement. McKinsey reports that companies with high executive-level diversity are 25 % more likely to achieve above-average profitability. Yet, despite these clear benefits, women and other marginalized groups often find themselves sidelined in an industry that needs their talents.

Raising awareness about the advantages of diverse teams and the importance of bringing more women on board is still a critical step in driving the cultural change needed across the industry. Attracting and retaining women hinges on providing ongoing intellectual challenges, clear career development pathways and equal promotion opportunities. Mentorship and sponsorship programs can be instrumental in supporting women’s career advancement, but ultimately, a broader cultural shift is essential.

This issue on Women in Mining therefore covers a range of key topics related to the experiences, contributions and challenges of women across various areas, showcasing the diverse and critical roles women play in the mining industry, from leadership and operational roles to academic and legal contributions.

While Isabel Knauf, Prof. Hoai Nga Nguyen and Thomas Ahlbrecht share varying career journeys and perspectives, Barbara Dischinger discusses the work and goals of the IWiM organization, which advocates for greater inclusion of women in the mining industry globally.

Angela Binder and Mareike Schubert explore the integration of women in teaching roles and the importance of role models in inspiring the next generation of women in mining.

Furthermore, Denise Strauch and Lydia Ziemer analyse the impact of the July 2021 flood event on mining and quarrying operations, focusing on hazard analysis and legal reactions under mining law. Victoria Dietrich then again delves into the historical development and legal aspects of mining.

On this note, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mareike Schubert and Angela Binder for their extraordinary commitment and invaluable assistance in producing this issue.

Learning that some of the women interviewed for this issue chose to remain anonymous, fearing reprisals in their home countries, underscores the importance of continuing the efforts toward this cultural shift towards greater equity, inclusion and protection for all voices within the industry.

Clearly, the challenges are and remain significant, but the rewards of overcoming them are even greater. An inclusive mining industry has the chance and also has been already demonstrated not only to be fairer and more appealing to a diverse workforce but also more resilient and successful. Let’s work together to continue building an inclusive and diverse mining industry. The future of mining is not just about extracting minerals from the earth; it’s about unearthing the potential within all of us.

With my best regards // Mit freundlichem Glückauf

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Elisabeth Clausen
Director at Institute for Advanced Mining Technologies (AMT), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen/Germany