Deep-level mines must get smarter about water

FOR South Africa to achieve both economic resilience and responsible water stewardship, we must move beyond static control models and embrace adaptive, demand-driven approaches where feasible.

- WALDO GERBER, CORNE SCHUTTE, ANDRIES GOUS AND JEAN VAN LAAR

Water is one of the most critical resources in the world, and its scarcity is becoming ever more prominent. In South Africa, where infrastructure instability and recurring shortages already strain communities and industry alike, water wastage in any sector should concern us all.

Deep-level gold mining is no exception.

While few South Africans ever see what happens kilometres beneath the surface, vast volumes of water circulate through underground mines every day. In these environments, water is essential. It cools workplaces maintaining safe temperatures, keeps equipment from overheating, and acts as an energy carrier for hydraulic tools. Without a reliable supply, production slows or stops altogether.

Yet studies suggest that as much as 30% of the water supplied to deeplevel mines may be lost through leaks and system inefficiencies. In a waterscarce country, that figure should give us pause.

The implications reach beyond the resource itself. Water wasted underground must ultimately be pumped back to the surface to avoid flooding. Dewatering systems in deep mines can account for up to 40% of a mine’s total energy demand. While the adoption of renewable energy is increasing, coal-fired power still dominates. Consequently, water wastage translates directly into higher energy consumption and greater carbon emissions.

With mining contributing roughly 6% to South Africa’s GDP in 2025, sustainable water management in deeplevel mines is not merely an operational concern ~ it is an economic and environmental imperative.

Challenge