Mine tailings and sand supply are emerging as two of the defining resource challenges of our time.
Our team at The University of Queensland has pioneered a new approach to recover clean, fit-for-purpose OreSand products from metal ores before they become wastes, reducing tailings at source while making valuable construction materials.
Our partner Vale has already commercially demonstrated this approach in Brazil, reducing tailings production by more than 2 million tonnes per year. Anglo American and Newmont are now working with us to extend the innovation to other commodities, and the work has been recognised by the World Economic Forum as a leading global innovation.
With the support of the Queensland Government we have established the OreSand Knowledge Hub to accelerate knowledge sharing and practical uptake across industry and government.
On 2 June 2026, we invite you to join us in Brisbane (or online) for a focussed workshop bringing together mining companies, construction and aggregate firms, regulators, researchers and circular economy practitioners to explore:
Practical pathways to reduce mine tailings and closure liabilities
Opportunities for responsible alternative aggregate supply chains
Technical, regulatory and market barriers to implementation
Lessons from early commercial deployment and pilot projects
The partnerships needed to scale circular approaches to mining
The workshop is intended for:
Mining companies exploring tailings reduction opportunities
Aggregate, concrete and construction firms seeking alternative sand supplies
Government and regulators advancing circular economy initiatives
Researchers and practitioners working on sustainability and innovation
For enquiries, please contact Elin Jennings (elin.jennings@uq.edu.au)
Date:
2 June 2026
Time:
9.00am - 4.00pm (in-person)
9.00am - 11.30am (online)
Venue:
Room 241,
Sir James Foots Building (47A),
St Lucia Campus,
The University of Queensland
Please register to attend in person by 26 May 2026.