Decarbonising Mineral Processing: Insights From A Life Cycle Assessment Approach *K. Nell (née Campbell)1, R. Powell2, M. Yahyaei1 1Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Australia, (*Presenting author: k.nell@uq.edu.au) 2Metso Australia Ltd, Australia Abstract The mining sector is under increasing pressure to decarbonise to maintain competitiveness, attract investment, and secure a social license. This is driven by global climate targets and emerging regulations such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). While renewable energy adoption has delivered substantial reductions in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, it leaves behind residual impacts [Scope 3] that must be addressed to achieve comprehensive decarbonisation. These residuals, embedded in consumables, wear materials, equipment, and services, are increasingly becoming the focus of sustainability strategies. This shifts the challenge from a narrow focus on energy use toward system-level strategies for low-carbon mineral processing. This paper presents insights from a collaborative study between The University of Queensland (UQ) and Metso, applying life cycle assessment (LCA) to three mineral processing case studies (copper, iron, and lithium) using Metso’s simulation software HSC Chemistry®. The joint work aimed to utilise the LCA framework to evaluate the full carbon footprint of mineral processing operations, including electricity use, consumables (e.g., wear materials and reagents), and operational conditions. The evaluation adhered to ISO 14040 and 14044 Standards. Several opportunities for methodological enhancement were identified, including aligning electricity emission factors with location-specific data and improving estimates of wear-material impacts. Through scenario analysis and system-level evaluation, the paper demonstrates how LCA can support strategic decision-making beyond energy substitution. By positioning LCA as a central tool for Scope 3 visibility, this work offers a roadmap for continuous decarbonisation in the mineral processing industry, contributing evidence-based insights for industry, policymakers, and researchers. 206
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