The Journey to Tailings Reduction: An Operator’s Perspective on Building the Business Case at Brownfield Sites

Speakers: Daisy Ambach, Principal - Projects, Glencore Zinc Assets Australia & 
                   Alastair Grubb, Manager - Major Projects, Glencore Zinc Assets Australia

Abstract: This presentation captures the perspective of an operator in the early stages of exploring tailings reduction initiatives at a brownfield site. It will aim to stimulate contemplation on the types of questions and challenges we have encountered to date and provide a reference for others embarking on similar journeys. The key message is that there isn’t a silver bullet for a tailings reprocessing/repurposing project and that a business case needs to be developed using a systems-thinking approach. This is only possible with greatly improved collaboration and co-ordination within organisations, as well as externally at an asset, regional and national level. The presentation will embody a spirit of enthusiasm and determination to explore innovative solutions, whilst empowering others to be disruptive on the pathway to tailings reduction.

Bios: Daisy Ambach is an engineering professional with seven years of experience in the resources and extractive industry. After graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering degree, majoring in Chemical and Environmental disciplines, Daisy began her career as a process engineer on major mining and oil and gas projects in Australia and the UK. She then transitioned to Mount Isa as an Environmental Engineer, championing tailings and dam safety initiatives. Daisy now works as a Principal Project Engineer with Glencore Zinc’s Global Capital Studies and Projects team, where she is exploring a tailings reprocessing/repurposing project alongside her colleague Alastair. Daisy is an advocate for the resources sector, and the leading role it can play in addressing the world’s sustainability challenges, through mine waste transformation. 

Alastair Grubb is a Project Manager responsible for Capital Studies within Glencore Zinc Assets Australia and has delivered studies across multiple assets, commodities, and throughout the metals value chain. Originally graduating as a Geotechnical Engineer from RMIT, Alastair has 20 years’ experience across various technical, operational, management and project development roles and has significant experience across multiple mining and metallurgical operations. Completing an EMBA with QUT reinforced and enhanced a keen interest in tackling complex and strategic problems facing our assets and industry. Alastair believes that innovative business models will enable the mining industry to support the sustainable advancement of society.