August 26, 2011

China shuts down 1,289 illegal coal mines

As of the end of July, work safety authorities had shut down 1,289 coal mines in the nationwide crackdown on illegal production at coal mines, Zhao Tiechui, deputy head of…

August 25, 2011

50,000 Chileans battle police against billionaire president

Reuters reports 50,000 protesters battled police in Chile's capital on Thursday, the second day of a two-day strike against unpopular President Sebastian Pinera. A recent poll put the right-wing leader's…

August 25, 2011

De-mucking system for heavy mud introduced

Every day up to 400 trucks leave the coal stockpile Kohlenhuck of Deutsche Steinkohle in Kamp-Lintfort, Germany. A special FRUTIGER De-Mucking System washes the trucks before they enter the public…

August 25, 2011

Professor develops innovative technology for wireless underground communication

In recent years, the tragic story of mine accidents has been retold many times in international headlines. But thanks to the work of Ryerson University researcher Xavier Fernando, countless miners'…

August 25, 2011

South Africa’s Eskom accepts BHP coal pricing ruling

Eskom will not appeal the court ruling that it has to disclose the special pricing deal it has with mineral resources group BHP Billiton, says Eskom CEO Brian Dames.

August 25, 2011

EPA finalizes surface-mining guidelines

Federal regulators have finalized surface-mining guidelines that have caused controversy in Appalachian coal country. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said use of the guidelines will better protect water quality and…

August 25, 2011

European steel producers continue to face tough times

European producers will continue to face tough times ahead in 2011 on falling sales figurres for both long and flat steel products in 2011, according to UK consultancy MEPS.

August 25, 2011

BHP profit sparks call to toughen mining tax

Amid pressure from the Greens for the government to make the mining tax even harsher, the Prime Minister today urged Tony Abbott to force the mining industry to share the…

August 24, 2011

UK Coal posts first profits in four years

UK Coal posted its first profit in four years yesterday after higher production and coal prices sparked a turnaround at its collieries.

August 24, 2011

BHP points to a new dilemma

The unavoidable quantum of the increase in BHP Billiton's revenue and profit numbers will doubtless provide verdant pasture for the gathering community of critics of both the Global Australian and…