46. Rethinking Mineral Exploration - Less Carbon, Less Water, Better Data

Reducing the environmental impact of mineral exploration can reap benefits beyond the immediate obvious reduction of harm on the local flora and fauna.  Perhaps unexpected for some are the savings in carbon and water, the positive impact on data collection, the response from local communities and the cost savings. Add to that an ability to recruit outstanding employees and you have a compelling argument for rethinking mineral exploration. To find out what ideas a random sample of folks involved in mineral exploration had, we toured the exhibit hall of the recent AME Roundup 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia.  What did they think would reduce the environmental impact of mineral exploration?  The ideas are wide ranging but hit on the critical point - take better data, be smart and be efficient. Careful program planning, building new camp systems and continuing to innovate as they grow their business is built into the fundamental framework of Anomalous Exploration.  Join us as we explore with Ellen Hunter-Perkins, CEO, how they approach small scale programs and the perhaps unexpected benefits of more time on the ground, in the field, to collect high quality data and the response they have had from potential employees.Anomalous Exploration Innovation is a core part of how Hy-tech operates, based out of Smithers, British Columbia. We talked to Brian Butterworth, President Hy-Tech Group about how they continue to adapt their systems and also build their international operations.  For several years now, they have been operating centrifuges on their diamond drills, resulting in most of the water needed in diamond drilling being recycled.  Several of their innovations result in lower fuel consumption and reduced equipment transportation.  Paying attention to how we drill diamond holes can significantly reduce our environmental footprint.Hy-tech DrillingTheme music is Confluence by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd. You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.