Critical topic of geological uncertainties and risks in mineral resource estimation
We are excited to announce that Clayton Deutsch, Director and Professor in the School of Mining Engineering at the University of Alberta, will be one of the keynote speakers at the upcoming Mineral Resource Estimation Conference (MREC 2025). His keynote address will focus on the critical topic of geological uncertainties and risks in mineral resource estimation, providing valuable insights into how these factors can be managed effectively with all stakeholders.
Keynote presentation: De-risking projects from mineral resource estimates.
In his keynote, Deutsch will delve into the importance of managing geological uncertainty and the risks it poses to the industry. He will review approaches from other industries to highlight the relevance and necessity of formal risk assessments. Followed by an exploration of the tools and techniques that resource estimators need to effectively conduct risk assessments and integrate them into their workflows.
One of the key takeaways from his talk will be the emphasis on “doing the right thing”. For professionals in the field, this means quantifying geological uncertainty and risk and effectively communicating these to all stakeholders. He also stresses the importance of presenting clear mitigation strategies, enabling teams to make informed decisions based on a sound understanding of potential risks.
The management of geological uncertainty is one of the biggest challenges facing mineral resource estimation today. As Deutsch shares, geological uncertainty ranks among the top five mining risks, and mitigating these risks is crucial for the long-term success of any project. His keynote will focus on turning “unknown unknowns” into “known unknowns,” equipping resource estimators with a clear roadmap for navigating these complexities.
Events like the Mineral Resource Estimation Conference are essential for advancing best practices and innovation within the mining industry. Deutsch believes that resource estimation plays a vital role in the mining value chain, and gatherings like MREC 2025 provide professionals with the unique opportunity to come together, network, and share insights. These events foster collaboration and alignment on key issues, ultimately driving the evolution of the industry and enhancing its overall effectiveness.