Critical Raw Materials: how EU Space data can support sustainable mining in Argentina

Copernicus, EGNOS and Galileo are digital enablers of new services in multiple domains: mining is without any doubt one of those sectors where synergies between Earth Observation and GNSS can unleash their full potential, supporting the transition to a more sustainable sector.

Satellite imagery and data delivered by Copernicus can be employed in all phases of mining operations, from prospecting activities for mineral deposits to environmental monitoring at the closure of mining sites. During operations, Earth Observation satellite data can support the monitoring of ground motion effects to prevent disruptions and keep workers safe. When it comes to Galileo, its Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) signals are currently used in open pit mining to guide mining trucks, giant excavators and earthmovers, helping avoid collisions and optimise operations. These and other additional concrete applications will be explored more extensively during the event.

The webinar seeks to provide to public bodies, organisations and private entities active or interested in mining in Argentina with transformational elements based on the unique features that only the EU Space Programme and its components can deliver.

Argentina boasts large mineral reserves: as highlighted in our market report, the South American country is part of the so-called “Lithium Triangle” together with Chile and Bolivia, representing the world’s fourth largest lithium producer and hosting the third largest reserve. Lithium is currently considered a Critical Raw Material (CRM) due to its limited supply worldwide and its pivotal role in the production of batteries for Electrical Vehicles (EVs); its use is therefore expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. Other relevant minerals in Argentina's economy include gold, silver and copper. 

The webinar takes place against the backdrop of notable milestones. It will precede the 2023 EU-Latin America Convention on Raw Materials (22-24 May, Buenos Aires) and the EU-Latin America-Caribbean Summit (second half of 2023) and will follow the launch of the EU-LAC Digital Alliance (Bogotá, Colombia) and the European Commission's Critical Raw Materials Act. The Critical Raw Materials Act further underlines the importance of key minerals for competitiveness and innovation.

 

→  Register here to participate in the webinar

→  European space companies willing to pitch their services at our webinars and events can apply here

→  Access the latest market report on Central and South America and the Caribbean. 

 

Background information:

→  Copernicus, EGNOS and Galileo

→  Critical Raw Materials Act