MINING CRITICAL TO FUTURE CIRCULAR ECONOMY FOR WASTE AND POST-MINING LAND USE.

The article focuses on the critical role of the mining sector in advancing a circular economy in Australia, emphasizing waste reduction and post-mining land use. It highlights how circular economy principles—such as reducing, reusing, and recycling materials—can improve resource efficiency, environmental outcomes, and economic benefits, particularly given mining’s significant share of Australia’s economy and material extraction. The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) and the Productivity Commission identify mining waste, including tailings and infrastructure, as valuable resources for recovery and reuse, while noting barriers like regulatory inconsistencies and high costs. Recommendations include integrating post-mine land use into economic planning and supporting regional approaches to maximize recycling and water recovery from mining processes.