Latin America. Reserves of essential minerals such as lithium, copper, nickel, molybdenum, and graphite in Latin America are crucial for booming technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). According to information from ECLAC, Chile, Peru, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico are among the nations with the largest strategic resources.
The global rise of AI has increased the demand for essential minerals and metals in the manufacture of semiconductor chips, storage devices, and electronic components, which require lithium, cobalt, copper, gold, tin, nickel, palladium, silver, and platinum.
In this context, it highlights the relevance of modernizing the mining industry in the region through the application of innovative technologies, the consolidation of essential infrastructure and the promotion of human capital. In addition, the use of artificial intelligence and big data is promoted with the aim of increasing productivity and reducing impacts on the environment.
The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) is promoting the Nature Positive strategy, which seeks to "halt and reverse the degradation of the natural environment by 2030", through the circularity of innovation and integrated land management. The bank stresses that this vision will be key to achieving climate goals and advancing sustainable development.
The implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and real-time data analysis are some of the technologies aimed at optimizing energy use, reducing waste and identifying critical areas. The mining industry, traditionally linked to high degrees of ecological impact, is currently seeking to use digital tools for more effective and responsible management.
Over the past five years, the mining industry has experienced a 30% increase in its costs, which, coupled with high energy prices in Latin America, impacts the profitability of operations. In this scenario, the implementation of technology is proposed as an instrument to simplify procedures, reduce expenses and boost productivity.
Vertiv recently worked with a mining company in Chile to modernize its data center. The project included the implementation of the Vertiv Liebert APM modular uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system, powered by lithium-ion batteries, which increased energy efficiency, increased redundancy and guaranteed the availability of the devices.
José Medina, Enterprise Key Account Manager at Vertiv, said: "The company understands the complexities and challenges of data center operations in the mining industry and offers effective and reliable solutions, designed to withstand the harsh conditions typical of industrial and mining environments: from corrosive elements and high humidity to salt exposure, extreme temperatures, dust, high altitudes, seismic activity and even snow."
