The Future Mining Forum & Expo, scheduled for September 9-11 in Katowice, has just announced an expanded lineup of speakers. The event will host representatives from public administration, major industrial companies, and experts to discuss critical issues for the European economy and the transformation of heavy industry.
The three-day forum focuses on key challenges facing the mining and resources sector. Topics include raw material security, critical metals, copper, metallurgy, modern technologies, digitization, and the transformation of industrial regions. Each session has been prepared with input from government, business, academia, and technology providers, creating a space for multi-perspective dialogue on the industry’s future.
Organizers emphasize that the growing interest reflects the importance of raw material sovereignty for Europe. The event aims to develop concrete conclusions that can support decision-makers in shaping long-term strategies. Registration is still open, and the organizers encourage all stakeholders to join the discussion.
Raw material security at the core of debates
One of the main themes is the security of supply chains for critical raw materials. The European Union has identified several metals and minerals as essential for the green and digital transitions, yet their extraction and processing often depend on a limited number of non-EU countries.
– We need to strengthen our domestic extraction capabilities while ensuring environmental and social standards – said a representative of the Ministry of Energy, who will participate in the panel dedicated to critical metals.
– Poland has significant geological potential, and events like this help align the interests of industry, science, and administration – added a spokesperson from Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa.
Innovation and digitization in the mining sector
The second major pillar of the forum covers new technologies. Automation, robotics, and digital twins are becoming standard in modern mining operations. Several presentations will showcase solutions already implemented in Polish mines, proving that innovation is not just a future ambition but a present reality.
Experts from Silesian University of Technology will lead workshops on the integration of AI in resource modeling and predictive maintenance. The digitization track also includes cybersecurity aspects, critical for increasingly connected mining infrastructure.
Transformation of industrial regions
The forum will also address the social and economic transformation of regions historically dependent on mining. The transition toward a low-carbon economy must be just and inclusive, with new job opportunities emerging in green industries, recycling, and material science.
Panel discussions will include representatives from local governments and social partners. The goal is to present a roadmap that balances decarbonization with maintaining economic stability in regions like Upper Silesia.
Registration for the event is still open. Organizers invite all stakeholders to join the conversation and contribute to shaping the future of the mining sector in Europe.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. Tupungato/Shutterstock
