Lean mining: principles for modelling and improving processes of mineral value chains

Most traditional extractive processes present stages that need modernisation and optimisation for enabling mining companies to warrant the effective achievement of both product quality and quantity. Such warranty, which is difficult to sustain due to the intrinsic nature of geological uncertainty, can only be achieved through an increased efficiency in the mineral supply chain. The paper demonstrates the benefits of creating models of existing mineral supply chains to identify and understand the points of value creation and places for possible improvement interventions. It shows how to identify a robust and risk-controlled path for the mining industry to benefit from the 'lean thinking' approach, introducing the concept of lean mining.