Anglo American’s Chief Technical Officer, Tom McCulley, used his inaugural address at the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) Roundup to convey a vital message: the success of the global energy transition is contingent upon expedient, extensive, and innovative mineral exploration.
During the annual conference in Vancouver, Mr. McCulley emphasized that rapid global change—driven by electrification, artificial intelligence, population growth, and geopolitical uncertainty—has resulted in escalating demand for critical minerals, outpacing current supply capabilities. He stated, “The world requires more critical minerals, delivered faster, safer, and in a more sustainable manner,” while cautioning delegates about declining ore grades, increasingly intricate deposits, rising capital expenditures, and prolonged permitting processes, all contributing to a constrained supply outlook.
Using copper as a case study, Mr. McCulley noted that developed economies possess approximately 230 kilograms of installed copper per capita, compared to a global average of around 70 kilograms. Bridging this disparity would demand an increase in installed copper stocks from roughly 500 million tonnes now to over 2 billion tonnes in the coming decades—a figure that may grow further as data centers, electrification initiatives, and grid infrastructure expand.
In light of these challenges, exploration remains a pivotal driver for the industry. Anglo American’s strategy prioritizes scale, discipline, and innovation, supported by an integrated discovery and geosciences team encompassing global exploration, near-asset discovery efforts, and advanced geoscience competencies.
Mr McCulley outlined several proprietary technologies enhancing Anglo American’s discovery capabilities, including the Spectrum airborne system (which collects high-resolution electromagnetic, magnetic, and radiometric data in one pass), a highly sensitive ground-based magnetometer termed “low-temperature SQUID” for detecting metallic sulphides in complex geological environments, and AI-assisted core logging capable of reducing manual relogging timeframes from weeks to a single day.
Although technological advancement is crucial, Mr. McCulley highlighted that successful mine development hinges on trust and robust community engagement. Reflecting on Anglo American’s Quellaveco copper mine in Peru, commissioned in 2022, he underscored the importance of early and consistent collaboration with local communities and government stakeholders, particularly in managing social and environmental risks such as water access. At Quellaveco, the company partnered with communities to design water diversion and storage solutions, including a 60-million-cubic-metre dam that predominantly serves regional water needs.
“The Vizcachas dam exemplifies our approach—initiated through open dialogue and designed by and for the community. The majority of its water benefits local residents, not the mine, reinforcing community partnership in infrastructure planning,” he remarked.
Mega-merger with Teck
On the topic of Canada, Mr. McCulley affirmed the nation’s unique potential to supply essential minerals necessary for the energy transition, citing its geological resources, regulatory environment, and commitment to responsible mining practices. He referenced the federal government’s 2025 budget, which allocates over $2 billion to strengthen mining competitiveness and accelerate investments in critical minerals.
Anglo American’s proposed $53-billion merger with Teck Resources, announced last September, aims to establish a global copper leader. The merger has received approval from the Canadian government, facilitating the formation of one of the world’s largest copper producers amid increasing demand.
Mr. McCulley commented, “Our history of partnerships aligns perfectly with this year’s theme, ‘Materials for a Changing World.’ We are proud to announce the merger with Teck, forming ‘Anglo-Teck,’ a global minerals enterprise headquartered in Vancouver.”
As part of its strategic vision, Anglo American intends to invest $300 million over five years in exploration and technology within Canada, launch a $100 million global institute dedicated to critical minerals research, and maintain its support for the junior mining sector.
“Discovery transcends merely locating ore bodies—it is integral to generating lasting economic, environmental, and social value for future generations,” Mr. McCulley concluded.