A University of Sydney report is setting out how Australian copper mining can become emission free over the next 30 years through the use of emerging technologies.

The university’s Warren Centre for Advanced Engineering’s The Zero Emission Copper Mine of the Future report was commissioned by the International Copper Association Australia and identifies five key target areas for technological innovation to reduce and ultimately eliminate mining emissions.

The report says exploration, movement of materials, ventilation, processing and water use are all key target areas in reducing emissions.

It says achieving cutting edge innovation and high-tech disruption will also depend on collaboration across a number of strategic levers, including policy programs, industry networks, capital enablers, future knowledge and an open mindset.

“The resources sector, and copper mining in particular, face big challenges in falling ore quality, fewer new deposits and much tougher licence-to-operate rules,” ICAA chief executive officer John Fennell said.

“But we need to do things differently going forward.”

Warren Centre director Ashley Brinson said a zero emission copper mine of the future would be significantly different from the current copper mining system and would require fundamental changes in how energy was consumed, sourced and abated.

“Moonshot-type thinking is needed to shape the aspirations and imagination of the industry towards adopting a zero emissions approach,” Mr Brinson said.

Mr Fennell said the report was the first of three blueprints, or horizon reports, over three years designed to clarify the vision, establish viable technologies, create an innovation culture and bring the industry together.