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ICMM's New Global Mining Dataset: A Step Towards Better Data in Mining and Metals

On September 3, 2025, the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) launched a groundbreaking initiative—the Global Mining Dataset. This dataset is heralded as the most exhaustive collection of publicly available information on mining and metals facilities, compiling details from 15,188 mines and processing plants around the globe, which include 47 different primary commodities. This comprehensive approach aims to fill the gaping holes in quality data that have long plagued the mining sector.

Addressing the Data Gap

As demand for minerals and metals escalates due to the global energy transition towards sustainable practices, there is an urgent need for credible and standardized data. Policymakers, investors, civil society, and industry stakeholders often find themselves lacking the necessary insights to formulate informed opinions or effectively shape regulations concerned with the mining sector.

The first phase of the ICMM initiative culminated in a report titled 'Understanding the Global Distribution of Mining and Metals Facilities', released alongside the Dataset. This report meticulously outlines the geographical distribution, production types, and operational metrics of mines, smelters, refineries, and processing plants worldwide. The dataset's solid foundation was established with valuable support from Accenture, Global Energy Monitor, and Skarn Associates, utilizing both public and proprietary data sources for a more comprehensive outlook.

Key Insights From the Dataset

Rohitesh Dhawan, President and CEO of ICMM, stated that over 75% of national economies have some connection to large-scale mining or mineral processing. This emphasizes the critical need for enhanced visibility into the industry’s footprint, as vital discussions about public policy hinge on this data. Notably, the dataset revealed that China, Australia, and the USA account for nearly 45% of all mining facilities, showcasing a significant concentration of mining activities in these regions.

Among the primary commodities represented in the dataset, coal, gold, copper, and iron ore take prominence. In fact, coal mines alone constitute 43% of all mines listed, underlining the continued reliance on this commodity. Furthermore, data indicates that metal mining and extractive metallurgy (such as smelters and refineries) are often situated in regional separations. Notably, China tops the chart with 426 metallurgical facilities recorded in the dataset.

Expert Commentary

Commenting on the dataset’s implications, Janez Potočnik, Co-Chair of the International Resource Panel, highlighted that reliable and transparent data serves as a crucial foundation for evidence-based policymaking and effective governance. He argued that robust datasets are indispensable for comprehending the environmental, social, and economic ramifications of the mining sector, which significantly contributes to sustainability targets worldwide.

On her part, Dr. Emma Gagen, Director of Data and Research at ICMM, addressed the existing challenges in global data collection, acknowledging the inadequacies and fragmented nature of current datasets. She noted that obtaining even basic statistics—such as the total number of mines and smelters—has previously proven difficult. Dr. Gagen firmly believes that transforming the information landscape surrounding mining and metals is necessary to elevate the credibility and trustworthiness of this sector’s data.

Future Directions

The Global Mining Dataset's release marks just the beginning of ICMM’s multi-year initiative aimed at enhancing data quality and accessibility. Looking ahead, Dhawan expressed optimism that the dataset will expand through partnerships with regional and global entities, ranging from academic institutions to governmental bodies, thereby closing existing data gaps.

In conclusion, the Global Mining Dataset is anticipated to serve as a pivotal resource, facilitating better understanding, discussions, and strategies within the mining sector in the context of sustainable development and energy transition. ICMM aims to maintain transparency and promote accountability across the mining value chain with this invaluable resource.

For those interested in exploring the dataset further, the first report is available on the ICMM website here.