In a landmark move for global sustainable mining, China has taken the lead in establishing a new international standard for underground mine backfilling systems. According to the China Nonferrous Metals Society, the guideline titled “Guidelines for the Design, Operation, and Maintenance of Backfill Pipeline Systems in Underground Mines” has been officially approved for development by ISO/TC 82 (International Organization for Standardization’s Technical Committee on Mining).

This initiative marks a significant step toward harmonizing global practices in green mining and underscores China’s growing influence in shaping international technical norms for sustainable resource extraction.

The standard is spearheaded by Guo Lijie, Deputy Director of the Mine Engineering Research & Design Institute at BGRIMM Technology Group, who serves as the convenor of the project. It will establish unified technical requirements for:

• Design of backfill pipeline systems

• Safety monitoring methods for pipelines

• Operational and maintenance management protocols

By providing a consistent global framework, the standard aims to eliminate technical and regulatory barriers that have historically hindered knowledge transfer, equipment interoperability, and best-practice adoption across borders—particularly in tailings management and underground void filling, which are critical for minimizing environmental impact and enhancing mine safety.

“This successful ISO立项 (project initiation), coupled with the simultaneous approval of a dedicated International Working Group on Tailings Backfill in Underground Mines—also led by China—demonstrates our country’s internationally recognized leadership in green metal mining technologies,” said Guo Lijie. “It represents a strategic shift from technology innovation to standard-setting leadership on the global stage.”

The development of the standard will involve experts from a diverse group of mining nations, including China, the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, India, Iran, and Zambia, ensuring broad applicability and inclusive technical input. This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to advancing responsible mining practices, reducing surface tailings storage risks, and promoting circular resource use in the mining lifecycle.

Industry observers note that this milestone not only enhances China’s voice in global mineral governance but also positions its green mining technologies for wider international adoption—supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the global energy transition.

(Source: Guangming Daily)