The Skillings Mining Review June 2021 issue of places the spotlight on the U.S. Department of Energy’s $19 million endowment, a decisive step toward strengthening the nation’s production of rare earth elements and critical minerals. As global supply chains face unprecedented strains, this initiative marks a turning point in securing resources essential for clean energy, defense, and advanced technology.
Our Jobs section examines the mining industry’s potential to create 100,000 jobs this year, while also exploring safety protections for miners in Ontario. In Profiles in Mining, we sit down with Ludovic Donati, Chief Digital Officer at Eramet, to discuss how digital transformation is reshaping mining operations worldwide.
In Special Focus, the Biden administration’s clean energy reforms take center stage, analyzing how policy shifts will directly impact mining and mineral demand.
From underground innovation to environmental stewardship, we cover key developments: Norway’s proposals for deep-sea mining, BluVein’s progress in mine electrification charging systems, and new safety funding that promises to save lives across operations.
Our Statistics section highlights April 2021 crude steel production, contrasts it with December 2020 output, and reviews broader industry trends—from iron ore production projected to grow 5.1% by 2025, to Sierra Metals’ $28 million iron ore processing investment in Mexico, and even Bitcoin mining’s rebound in Xinjiang.
The issue concludes with a compelling case study: a former Adirondack Park mine transformed into a major solar project, symbolizing mining’s role in the clean energy transition.
Skillings Mining Review June 2021 underscores how innovation, policy, and sustainability converge—anchored by the DOE’s rare earths initiative that could redefine America’s critical minerals future.
