Full Value Realisation of Metallurgical Coal Tailings
Unlocking Circular Economy Potential in Queensland’s Bowen Basin
Queensland’s Bowen Basin is one of the most significant metallurgical coal regions in the world. Every year, it produces over 137 million tonnes of saleable coal to meet global demand for steelmaking. Alongside this production, however, an estimated 11.7 to 23.5 million tonnes of tailings are generated.
Traditionally regarded as waste, these tailings contain valuable co-products that could generate between $1.7 and $3.4 billion in annual value if recovered. This is based on conservative yield assumptions and market-aligned pricing.
Why Tailings Matter
For every tonne of metallurgical coal sold, between 60 and 120 kilograms of valuable materials remain in the form of fines and tailings. Far from being leftovers, these are the building blocks of new opportunities. Recovering and reusing these materials supports:
Sustainability – reducing waste and making better use of existing resources.
Economic Growth – unlocking billions in untapped value.
Innovation – driving new technologies and processes in resource recovery.
The Bowen Basin Advantage
The Bowen Basin covers 60,000 square kilometres – equivalent to about 8.5 million football fields. It is the beating heart of Australia’s metallurgical coal production, supplying coal critical to the global steel industry. This makes it uniquely positioned to lead the way in advancing circular economy practices within the resources sector.
From Waste to Resource
Reframing tailings as a resource rather than waste opens the door to a more resilient and sustainable future for mining in Queensland. The opportunity is clear: by maximising recovery, we can realise the full value of our resources, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen Australia’s global position in the steelmaking supply chain.
At RCOE, we are committed to helping industry partners explore and advance these opportunities — connecting innovation, people, and ideas that can make circular economy solutions a reality.