Machine learning and artificial intelligence are emerging as vital tools for the mining industry to meet the surging global demand for critical minerals needed in the clean energy transition, according to SRK Consulting principal consultant for geology Ben Jupp.
Speaking at the Philippine Mining Club Luncheon on September 26 at Seda Hotel Bonifacio Global City, Jupp said copper demand alone is projected by the International Energy Agency to increase by 600% by 2040 compared to 2020 levels. This stresses the need for more efficient and sustainable mineral exploration.
Jupp explained that while artificial intelligence has existed since the 1950s, recent advances in deep learning and neural networks have expanded its applications across industries. In mining, these tools are now being used for automated core logging and prospectivity analysis, which can improve the ability to identify promising mineralization zones.
He cited case studies conducted with BHP and DeepIQ in Chile, Peru, and Scandinavia, where machine learning models were trained on known copper and nickel deposits to generate predictive maps for new exploration targets. The approach combined knowledge-driven methods such as fuzzy logic with multiple machine learning algorithms to validate outputs and reduce human bias.
“Only a handful of geological inputs—such as structures, intrusions, and alteration signatures—drive most predictions,” Jupp said, noting that integrating these factors into fusion models has produced more reliable and geologically realistic results.
Jupp acknowledged that not all datasets are suitable for machine learning, pointing to sparse geochemistry as better used for confirmatory purposes rather than as model drivers. He emphasized that while artificial intelligence will not “change the world” on its own in geology, it will be a powerful complement to traditional scientific methods.
“The goal is to use these methods to narrow down targets faster and make exploration more efficient and sustainable,” he added, stressing that the real value comes from combining advanced technology with solid geological expertise.
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