Anglo American, De Beers, and Sasol have entered a landmark joint development agreement to produce up to 400 million litres of locally manufactured biodiesel for mining operations. The agreement was signed at the Investing in African Mining Indaba, held at the International Conference Centre in Cape Town. This initiative marks a significant step toward reducing carbon emissions in the mining sector while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

The biodiesel will be derived from the Moringa tree and the Solaris tobacco plant, both of which can thrive on degraded mining land. The vegetable oil extracted from these plants will be processed at Sasol’s Natref refinery in Sasolburg. By utilizing Sasol’s existing refining infrastructure, the partners aim to commercialize biodiesel production more efficiently and at a lower cost than new greenfield operations.

Dr. Sureshen Pillay, Sasol’s Business and Technology Development Director, emphasized the importance of this initiative in South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Initial testing has already produced 500 litres of biodiesel, with results indicating a potential 90% reduction in diesel carbon emissions. Given Sasol’s established fuel testing and refining capabilities, the company is well-positioned to scale production rapidly.

Alison Atkinson, Anglo American’s Group Director of Projects & Development, highlighted the critical role biodiesel will play in the company’s decarbonization strategy. While electrification and renewable energy solutions are advancing, liquid fuels will remain necessary for years to come. By choosing to manufacture biodiesel locally instead of importing it, Anglo American can ensure cost efficiency while supporting regional economic development. The company has initially allocated 20 hectares for cultivating Moringa and Solaris plants.

Beyond environmental benefits, this project offers economic and social advantages. Growing biodiesel feedstock on former mining land contributes to land rehabilitation while creating employment opportunities for local communities. The Moringa and Solaris plants were specifically chosen for their resilience and ability to grow on degraded land, ensuring minimal maintenance. Unlike maize and other food crops, these plants do not compete with food production, aligning with the partners’ sustainability goals.

This initiative is part of Anglo American’s broader commitment to achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040. De Beers is also aligning the project with its Origins strategy, which focuses on sustainable practices and innovation. Pre-feasibility studies have been approved, and renewable diesel production trials have already commenced within De Beers’ mining operations and host communities.

In 2022, Anglo American unveiled the world’s largest hydrogen-powered mine haul truck as part of its decarbonization efforts. This new biodiesel initiative further strengthens the company’s commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Sasol’s Natref refinery, which currently processes fuels from crude oil, will integrate biodiesel refining without significant modifications. Production trials will continue for up to two years to assess feedstock growth cycles and refine operational processes. According to Naidoo, this agreement combines competitive feedstock, established refining assets, and a secure customer base, ensuring a commercially viable biodiesel supply chain for the mining industry.