SPOTLIGHT ON MINING IN BRAZIL

Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Krisha Canlas

The Brazilian mining industry is centuries old, with the country’s first discovery of gold recorded in 1693 in the state of Minas Gerais. Despite this rich history, it has experienced the most growth in recent years. In 2021 alone, the country’s mining revenue was reported to have increased by 62 percent. Indeed, Brazil has long occupied a spot among the top five mineral producers in the world, qualifying the country’s mining industry as a dynamic force in the global arena.

While mining in Brazil is centred on metals such as iron ore, gold, copper, and aluminium, it is known as the world’s largest producer of niobium. The rare grey metal is used to make jet engines, airplane bodies, superconducting magnets, and bridges. As Brazil has the largest reserves of niobium on the planet, in 2021 the country produced 66 metric tonnes of the plentiful resource.

However, metallic mining remains the most relevant mineral activity, with the most valued commodities being iron ore, gold and copper. In fact, iron ore accounts for almost 74 percent of the industry’s yield. Most of the minerals are concentrated in the states of Minas Gerais and Pará - an area that also produces gold and diamonds, although these quantities fluctuate from year to year.

Mining in Brazil means more than unearthing minerals, since precious and semi-precious stones are extracted from various deposits throughout the country. Geologically, Brazil is a treasure trove of gemstone deposits, including emeralds, opals, topaz, and quartz (agate, amethyst and citrine), with the rare and valuable Paraíba tourmaline as the jewel in the crown. On a smaller scale, diamonds, rubies and sapphires complete nature’s jewellery box. Other, more quotidian resources include kaolin, phosphates, and coal. With the latter resource found in the southern states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil is entirely self-sufficient when it comes to harnessing energy from coal.

Known for its varied topography, 46 percent of Brazil is covered with Amazon Rainforest. Since the most biodiverse landscape on the planet is juxtaposed with one of its biggest and most profitable industries, the mines in Brazil must operate as ecologically as possible. Brazilian mining is striving to become more sustainable as the industry must reflect the expectations of both stakeholders and society by lessening the environmental impact of its processes.