"I think many people would be surprised to learn that much of what can be achieved to make the minerals sector safer, greener, and more socially aware is based on technical and engineering know-how that has been around for some time," conference convener David Goeldner said.

"That means much of the traditional minerals engineering programs that have started to dwindle around the globe should be looked at again and revived," he said.

Topics at the conference will include reducing energy use in mining and milling, health monitoring using intelligent clothing, using virtual reality in underground mining, and reducing dust emissions from processing plants.

PhD and masters students from the United Kingdom, Finland, Indonesia, Turkey, South Africa, Tanzania, the United States, Canada, and Australia will present their work to senior government and mining company representatives, and leading researchers.