Published: 16 September 2025
ACG MINE CLOSURE 2025
AMC Consultants (AMC) is proud to present and attend the Mine Closure Conference 2025 from 23 to 25 September 2025 to be held at Kulturens Hus, Luleå, Sweden.
A key feature of the conference series is the diversity of disciplines and expertise that come together to focus on the pressing issues facing the mine closure community globally.
As a global mining consultancy, AMC are committed to integrating environmentally responsible practices into all services. Leveraging extensive experience and deep knowledge of mining fundamentals, we deliver best practice and innovative insights through a risk-based approach to post-mining transition and sustainability.
AMC at the Conference
Session 10C: Biodiversity and nature outcomes
Topic: The impact of enhanced sustainability outcomes on the optimal open pit to underground transition
Co-Author and Presenter:
Nicolau Barros, Mine Sustainability Lead
Location: Ingemar/Martin Room
Date: Thursday, 25 September 2025
Time: 10:15 AM - 10:35 AM
Abstract:
Sustainability considerations, including environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects are indeed a
critical matter for the mining industry. Today, sustainability performance and credentials permeate all aspects
of mineral projects, influencing everything from initial project evaluation through to operations and mine
closure, and overarching corporate governance objectives.
The decision to transition from open pit to underground operations is a multifaceted challenge, devoid of a
one-size-fits-all solution. Traditionally, this decision hinged predominantly on economic factors such as mining
costs, and technical risks; with open pit mines often perceived as offering greater certainty. However,
underground mining typically encompasses many material advantages from a broader sustainability
perspective, including a smaller disturbance footprint; lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; greater
utilisation of natural resources (better resources stewardship, less waste generation); less societal disruption;
and less financial impact associated with closure. Consequently, integrating sustainability considerations into
the evaluation of the optimal transition point from open pit to underground operations may expedite the
transition and lead to a smaller open pit and the earlier development of an underground mine.
Key Profiles
Nicolau Barros
Mine Sustainability Lead
Nicolau has 24 years’ international experience in the mining industry, and his expertise is in world-class mining businesses both open-cut and underground across different commodities and countries in roles such as operational technical services, strategic planning and closure studies
Tim Sharman
Mine Sustainability Lead
Tim's professional journey highlights a wealth of expertise and leadership within the mining industry. He has a comprehensive skill set, encompassing strategic planning, sustainability initiatives, and effective management of multidisciplinary teams. Tim's ability to spearhead complex projects, integrate non-mining disciplines, and manage commercial agreements underscores his strategic acumen and operational proficiency.
James Town
Principal Mining Engineer
James has more than 12 years of experience in underground mining-engineering roles, with primary expertise in detailed engineering planning including all aspects of mine design and scheduling, drill-and-blast design, and resource and reserve statements. He has extensive experience with strategic optimization projects, production potential assessment, cut-off grade application, business strategy development, benchmarking operational performance, and detailed financial analysis.