Global mining faces a historic dilemma: responding to the urgency of the energy transition while moving towards more sustainable and inclusive models. In this context, Doris Hiam-Gálvez (pictured), programme chair of the World Mining Congress 2026 (WMC), introducing the content for the historic event, which will be hosted in Lima, Peru, in June, said the future of the industry must involve a profound change of vision.
“We want mining to be the solution to climate change and sustainable development,” she said in a recent interview with the Chilean media Reporte Minero. Energy transition cannot wait, she said, and it needs more critical minerals than ever, given we don’t have 20 years to open new mines.
“The challenge is to increase productivity with what we already have, reduce waste, apply smarter technologies and do it with less environmental impact, building trust with communities.” Under this premise, the World Mining Congress 2026 (WMC), will be the platform where how to achieve this will be discussed.
Practical innovations ranging from the circular economy and vertical integration to new forms of collaboration with communities and governments will be presented. “We want to use this congress as a platform to launch a new phase for mining – one that is more productive and more human. This is an opportunity to begin, together, a new chapter for mining and for the planet,” Dr Hiam-Galvez said.
The World Mining Congress 2026 will run 24-26 June in Lima, giving Peru a big opportunity to be the epicentre of international debate on how to make mining a transformative driver of sustainable development. The event promises to foster new solutions through smarter technologies that contribute to decarbonisation, environmental management, and the production of critical minerals.
This most important global gathering of the mining industry will bring together mining companies, investors, governments, and key stakeholders from more than 50 countries and the call for abstracts of technical papers addressing any of the 16 thematic pillars of the program is now open. The submission deadline is 30 September, 2025. For further information, interested parties may contact wmc2026@iimp.org.pe.
