Mining knowledge governance encompasses research on geology, mineral processing, environmental management, mine closure, and social impacts, as well as innovation in digitization, automation, and low-carbon technologies (IEA, 2021). Effective governance frameworks seek to ensure that scientific research remains independent, credible, and socially relevant, while enabling collaboration with industry and public authorities (OECD, 2003). The academic literature highlights that weak governance structures often lead to excessive reliance on private funding, fragmentation of research agendas, and risks of regulatory capture. In contrast, countries with established mining innovation systems tend to adopt mixed governance models that combine public oversight, academic autonomy, and industry participation under transparent rules. 2.2 Academic autonomy and capacity for innovation Academic autonomy is a fundamental principle for scientific integrity and innovation. It encompasses the freedom to define research agendas, methodologies, and dissemination strategies without undue political or economic interference. In the context of mining research, autonomy is particularly sensitive due to the economic importance of the sector and environmental externalities. Studies on innovation systems emphasize that autonomous research institutions are better positioned to generate long-term knowledge, address complex sustainability challenges, and contribute to the transformative innovation required for the ecological transition (Mazzucato, 2018). However, autonomy does not imply isolation but rather requires governance mechanisms that enable cooperation while preserving institutional independence. 2.3 Technology transfer, ecological transition, and SDGs Technology transfer is a fundamental component of mining innovation, as it enables scientific knowledge to be translated into practical solutions for industry and society (OECD, 2019). In the ecological transition, effective transfer mechanisms are essential for implementing cleaner technologies, improving energy efficiency, and promoting circular economic practices. International experience shows that clear regulatory frameworks for intellectual property, public-private partnerships, and knowledge sharing are critical to successful technology transfer (Amburle et al., 2022). When these frameworks are absent or ambiguous, research results often fail to reach the application stage, limiting their impact on sustainability and climate goals. With regard to the SDGs around which the research revolves, it should be noted that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is established as one of the regulatory frameworks with the greatest impact on public policy formulation. In this regard, in the mining and innovation fields, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contribute to better guiding knowledge governance with a focus on public value, sustainability, and social legitimacy. The following SDGs are relevant to the study: - SDG 9 (innovation, industry, and infrastructure): This goal recognizes innovation as a 46
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