The Essential Minerals Coalition, a group of 15 mining companies and entities, presented a report to COP30 president Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago outlining how the sector could reduce its own carbon emissions by up to 90% and help lower Brazil’s total emissions by 2050.

Led by the Brazilian Business Council for Sustainable Development (CEBDS), Vale, and the Brazilian Mining Institute (IBRAM), the report said the mineral sector can also help cut global steel chain emissions and support electrification. The report stated that the global energy transition depends on mining and highlights Brazil’s strategic position due to its diverse geology, established mineral sector, and renewable electricity matrix. It identifies five enablers to unlock this potential.

The Coalition analyzed three areas of contribution: cutting mining emissions through energy efficiency, biofuels, renewables, electrification, and land recovery; reducing emissions in the iron ore chain by up to 110 MtCO2e through low-carbon steel inputs; and doubling production of energy transition minerals to cut up to 300 MtCO2e annually by 2050. The report noted this depends on regulatory improvements, technology access, infrastructure, green finance, and a green premium.