“We’re planning Hermosa with a mindset of leading the industry in reducing carbon footprints and implementing technologies, not just for carbon reduction but also to improve safety. And oftentimes, we find those two go hand in hand.”
– Scott Flanagan
Manager, Project Strategy and Performance
I have a young family, and when I think of how our work impacts the environment, that’s a consideration that is very important to me and for the future that we leave for our children. So, when I think about the Hermosa Difference, I see the embodiment of our commitment to setting a new standard for sustainable mining by practicing what we preach.
South32 has a long-term goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 2050. Knowing this from the outset empowers our team at Hermosa to make decisions during the early stages of the project that will help us to achieve this shared goal.
At Hermosa, we have the unique opportunity to develop our project from the ground up. As the Manager of Project Strategy and Performance, I have witnessed firsthand our plans to do so through the implementation of clean energy solutions and advanced technology.
These efforts are not only essential parts of Hermosa’s design but are also creating a positive precedent across the mining industry. We’re planning Hermosa with a mindset of using leading industry solutions to reduce our carbon footprint and implementing technologies, not just for carbon reduction, but also to improve safety.
And oftentimes, we find those two go hand in hand.
The clean energy design has added benefits for the entire region. While we are pioneering a shift towards clean energy sources, the power supply infrastructure needed to access that renewable energy like transmission wires and distribution networks can contribute to lower carbon power solutions that the entire region and local community can harness as well.
On-site, this clean energy will power our equipment, including a planned all-electric vehicle fleet, both above and below ground. By choosing battery-electric over diesel equipment, we’re creating a safer environment, helping reduce noise and enhancing working conditions.
The design for a fully electric fleet includes charging bays where trucks can swiftly swap battery packs and return to work without delay. By integrating this infrastructure from the initial design of the project, we not only reduce the costs associated with implementing battery-electric vehicles but also establish a clear commitment to continuously advancing technology within our operations.
I feel proud when I see the commitment that South32 is making in southern Arizona and the way we prioritize the environment by electing to use clean energy technology. I’m excited to come to work and help produce these necessary minerals in such a responsible way.
For me, that’s the Hermosa Difference.