Demand for minerals is rising, but debates on mining and metals' impact are stalled by fragmented data. ICMM is undertaking a multi-year initiative to build comprehensive, transparent datasets, starting with a global overview of mining and processing facilities.
The Value of Data
In today’s world, data is more than just numbers—it shapes perceptions, informs policy, and drives real change.
In today’s world, data is a powerful resource. It shapes opinions, supports effective regulation and helps uncover key insights around the impacts and contributions of a specific activity. Given the significant impact and contribution of the mining and metals industry, one would expect robust data to support understanding and oversight – yet that data is often lacking.
Global mining data project
In the mining sector, not all data holds the same value. Some datasets are easily and publicly accessible but offer limited insight, while others are privately held or subscription-based despite containing valuable information that could reshape our understanding of mining.
ICMM’s Global Mining Data Project is a multi-year initiative designed to bridge the data gap in the mining and metals industry. The project focuses on developing robust datasets and generating data-driven insights to address key, yet unanswered questions about the sector’s impact and contribution. Starting with foundational questions – such as how many mines are currently operating worldwide – the project will go on to explore more complex topics, including the mining industry’s share of global carbon dioxide emissions.
Collaborating for better mining data
However, collecting data is not always straightforward. Some types of data require substantial investment of time and resources.
By carefully mapping effort against potential impact, we aim to prioritise high-value data that supports informed dialogue and meaningful engagement around mining and metals. This is a challenge we can’t, and do not intend to tackle alone. As we refine our approach, ICMM will work closely with members, stakeholders, and research partners to lay the groundwork for stronger data collection and analysis.
This project goes beyond simply gathering information; it’s about ensuring credible, accessible data is available to enhance greater public understanding of mining and metals and to foster more informed and constructive conversations with stakeholders around responsible mining and the industry’s essential role in society. We invite others to join us on this journey – your partnership is key to building a more transparent and trusted future for mining.
The Global Mining Dataset
The first step in our Global Mining Data Project was to answer three foundational questions: How many mining and metals facilities exist worldwide, where are they, and what do they produce?
The Global Mining Dataset provides the most comprehensive publicly available overview of mines, smelters, and refineries worldwide, covering 8,508 sites. It draws from a broader internal record of 15,188 large-scale facilities producing 47 primary commodities. While some data cannot be shared due to licensing restrictions, the public dataset offers a detailed, high-quality snapshot of the sector.
The Dataset is a living resource. We recognise there is significant opportunity to enhance its accuracy, completeness, and utility, and we welcome collaboration with stakeholders across the mining industry and beyond. Feedback, refinements, or additional datasets can be submitted via the online feedback form or by contacting the data team at data@icmm.com.
Global mining data: Landscape reporting
Global Mining Dataset: Understanding the global distribution of mining and metals facilities
Global mining data: Mining Contribution Index
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The 7th edition of ICMM’s Mining Contribution Index (MCI) ranks countries by mining’s role in their economies, highlighting the need for strong governance to ensure sustainable development.
Role of Mining in National Economies: Mining Contribution Index (6th Edition, 2022)
This edition of ICMM's Mining Contribution Index synthesises into a single number the significance of the mining sector’s contribution to national economies.
Role of Mining in National Economies: Mining Contribution Index (5th Edition, 2020)
This edition of ICMM's Mining Contribution Index synthesises into a single number the significance of the mining sector’s contribution to national economies.
Role of Mining in National Economies: Mining Contribution Index (4th Edition, 2018)
This update to ICMM's Mining Contribution Index ranks countries according to the importance of mining to the national economy.
Role of Mining in National Economies: Mining Contribution Index (3rd Edition, 2016)
This edition shows the significant contribution of mining and metals to national economies and provides an update to ICMM's Mining Contribution Index.
Role of Mining in National Economies: Mining Contribution Index (2nd Edition, 2014)
This edition shows the significant contribution of mining and metals to national economies and provides an update to ICMM's Mining Contribution Index.
Role of Mining in National Economies: Mining Contribution Index (1st Edition, 2012)
This report looks at the contribution of mining and metals to national economies.
