Abstract

The sustainability of mining projects is linked to informed investment decisions based on public reporting of exploration and mineral resource estimation results. In Australia, public reporting guidelines are established by the Joint Ore Reserves Committee reporting code through the JORC Code (2012). Although the assessment of uncertainty in the results reported is a requirement, this is often communicated qualitatively and evaluated subjectively. This can become a liability particularly in the early stages of mining projects when spatial domains of geological interpretation and mineralisation envelopes inform resource estimations’ reliability.
A recent review of JORC reports found no reports used quantitative assessments of the geological interpretation or mineral resource estimation envelopes, and 27 per cent of reports did not address the question of quality of geological interpretation. Reports that did address the quality used 19 different terms to communicate quality.
This work presents methodologies for quantitative uncertainty assessment and communication and explores how they could be applied in public reporting practice. Quantitative uncertainty reporting would benefit mine planning and financial modelling as they normally assume the geology is 100 per cent right (since no error is reported or only a single deterministic model is provided).
The complexity, cost, and additional work of doing a quantitative assessment could hinder a straightforward implementation. This could be overcome if mining companies budget for quantitative uncertainty assessment and associated professional development. A compulsory requirement for
the inclusion of uncertainty assessments in public reporting or adopting standardised subjective language would improve industry practice.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication12th International Mining Geology Conference
Subtitle of host publicationConference Proceedings
Place of PublicationVictoria, Australia
PublisherAustralian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
Pages114-120
Number of pages7
Publication statusPublished - 22 Mar 2022
EventInternational Mining Geology Conference 2022 - Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, and online, Brisbane, Australia
Duration: 22 Mar 202223 Mar 2022
https://www.ausimm.com/conferences-and-events/mining-geology/
https://www.ausimm.com/conferences-and-events/mining-geology/program/conference-program/ (Program)

Conference

ConferenceInternational Mining Geology Conference 2022
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityBrisbane
Period22/03/2223/03/22
OtherWelcoming over 500 global attendees, both in-person and online, this outstanding conference showcased the latest techniques to maximising orebody value and driving productivity in mining geology, and new and emerging technologies providing solutions to operations.
The conference featured industry-leading keynotes, a high-quality technical program, exhibition and virtual booths, interactive workshops and a dedicated Young Professionals program.
Internet address

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