Slim

Zabala Innovation manages the European project SLIM, “Sustainable Low Impact Mining solution for exploitation of small mineral deposits based on advanced rock blasting and environmental technologies,” led by the Polytechnic University of Madrid. SLIM includes a broad package of Social Innovation actions led by Zabala Innovation, as an expert in this field.

Challenge 
SLIM aims to minimise the impact of mineral extraction techniques in small deposit mines, including deposits of high chemical complexity or low mineral quality.

Solution
Introduction of technological advances to minimise the impact and eliminate risks, considering the economic, social and environmental dimensions of the mines, in order to reach agreements with local populations, with a package of Social Innovation actions that includes information and participation processes with the communities involved and key social agents.

Results
Among other aspects, it will improve the efficiency of mining activity by 25%, reduce vibrations and derived noise by 20-25%, as well as energy consumption by 20%, and greenhouse gases by 10%.