In a world grappling with waste management and environmental sustainability, a beacon of hope emerges from the Institute of Technical Sciences of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts. Aleksandar Mitrašinović, leading a groundbreaking study, has shed light on the potential of copper slags, a byproduct of mining and metal extraction, to revolutionize the circular economy. Published in the esteemed journal Global Challenges, which translates to ‘Global Challenges’ in English, this research could reshape the energy sector and construction industry.
Copper slags, often discarded as waste, are now being recognized for their potential to create value-added products. Mitrašinović’s study reveals that only 15% of the generated copper slags worldwide are currently used for commercial purposes. This leaves a vast amount of material untapped, with significant potential for economic and environmental benefits. “The market for using waste copper slags has grown to an 800 million dollar market in 2024, with a predicted compound annual growth rate of 5.5% in the following years,” Mitrašinović explains. This growth trajectory underscores the commercial viability of copper slag utilization.
The study highlights the properties of copper slags that make them suitable for producing value-added products. With the rapid increase in population and urbanization, there is a growing demand for geotechnical applications and construction materials. Copper slags can be utilized for large-scale construction purposes such as earthworks and buildings, absorbing the entire quantity of copper slags generated. This could lead to an achievement of 100% reusability of copper slags, aligning with circular economy principles.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the world transitions to renewable energy, the demand for construction materials is set to rise. Copper slags offer a sustainable solution, reducing the need for virgin materials and minimizing waste. “If this happens, it would mean an achievement of 100% reusability of copper slags in compliance with circular economy principles,” Mitrašinović states, emphasizing the potential for a zero-waste future.
This research not only highlights the economic potential of copper slags but also underscores the importance of adopting industrial techniques to eliminate threats from heavy metals and other harmful elements. By establishing a market that can sustainably handle all quantities of generated slag, we can move towards a more sustainable and circular economy.
As we stand on the brink of a green revolution, Mitrašinović’s research offers a glimpse into a future where waste is not discarded but transformed into valuable resources. The journey towards zero waste mining is fraught with challenges, but with innovative research and a commitment to sustainability, the path forward is clear. The energy sector, in particular, stands to gain significantly from this shift, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.