EURO 2025 Leeds
Abstract Submission

2894. On Sustainable Mining Supply Chains: An Overview of Issues and Modelling Challenges

Invited abstract in session MC-18: OR for Sustainable Development III, stream OR for Sustainable Development.

Monday, 12:30-14:00
Room: Esther Simpson 2.09

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. A. Akofa Amegboleza
Industrial Engineering, Dalhousie University
2. M. Ali Ülkü
Management Science & Information Systems, Faculty of Management, Dalhousie University

Abstract

With alarming concerns about the climate crisis yet with increasing demand for rare earth elements for technological production, extraction industries are under double-edged sword pressure. The mining industry plays a critical role in global economic development but remains heavily challenged by high energy consumption, environmental degradation, inefficient resource management, and social conflicts. Sustainable operational efficiency in mining requires an integrated approach that optimizes energy transition, enhances water management, and strengthens supply chain resilience. In this research, we develop an optimization framework that balances cost, emissions reduction, resource efficiency, and regulatory compliance within the quadruple-bottom-line framework (i.e., economy, environment, society, and culture). Along with the modeling challenges, we highlight pressing issues that warrant further research to instill sustainability into mining supply chain operations and supply chains.

Keywords

Status: accepted


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