The International Mining Forum served primarily as a forum for broad discussion and exchange of experience related to the introduction of Industry 4.0. The main topic of most thematic sessions was safety and efficiency of mining operations and the role of coking coal in the global economy. - We must say it loud and clear that critical raw materials are necessary for the world to function. We should remember that their value will increase because these resources are non-renewable. Therefore, we must use them efficiently - said Prof. Józef Dubiński, President of the Management Board of the Association of Mining Engineers and Technicians and the Chairman of the Scientific Committee of the IMF 2019.
Annually, the European Union imports about 40 million tons of coking coal, of which Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa is the largest producer in the EU. - According to experts, over the next 25-30 years coke will not be replaced in the blast furnace smelting process; the market for this raw material will increase because demand for steel will also grow. This means that demand for coking coal will also rise – emphasized in Katowice Daniel Ozon, President of the Management Board of Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa .
The panelists repeatedly pointed out that the fourth industrial revolution was taking place right in front of our eyes and could not be stopped. Prof. Józef Dubiński argued that we should not be afraid of it, but rather look to the future with enthusiasm: – The bus with the Industrial Revolution 4.0 is coming; you need to get on it and take decisive action. This includes robotics and computerization; we have to accept it and take up the challenge. If we want to be modern, we must learn to think like this and become enthusiastic about this, because innovation requires our commitment - summarized Prof. Józef Dubiński.
New technologies and innovative solutions are already a fixture in the mining industry but also a huge challenge for the entire sector. Contemporary, highly-innovative mining projects will increase safety in mines and improve their efficiency.
The International Mining Forum is a cyclical event held in various places around the world. Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa hosted this prestigious and important conference for the second time.