Industry advocacy group the World Coal Association has welcomed two new members to its fold, both from South Africa: operator Seriti Resources and processing and services group Barloworld.
According to WCA CEO Michelle Manook, the addition of Seriti and Barloworld uncovers a “new vanguard” of coal operatives “who understand that coal must transition through an understanding of the total contribution of coal and the role of abatement technologies across the coal value chain,” which are in part incorporated in the Paris Agreement and endorsed by climate science.
“Seriti and Barloworld understand that coal is intrinsic to economic growth, social enrichment, and a sustainable, net zero emissions future, and they are committed to shaping a clean coal future which leaves no one behind,” Manook added.
Seriti CEO Mike Teke noted of its induction that the group is “acutely conscious” of how imperative it is to reduce carbon emissions via cleaner coal burning as well as a just transition to clean coal and renewable energy production.
“We see participation in the latter as an important further step for Seriti,” Teke added.
Barloworld Equipment CEO Emmy Leeka pointed out that, according to the World Economic Forum, coal represents about 44% of global CO2 emissions and close to 40% of global installed generation capacity.
“Of this, 75% is installed in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs), which rely on coal energy for economic development and energy assurance to communities,” Leeka noted. “As such, forums [such] as the WCA are paramount in forging collaborative change, as we continue to identify sustainable solutions, aimed at ensuring a cleaner coal Southern Africa and world at large.”
Other WCA members include but are not limited to Peabody, Caterpillar Global Mining, XCoal, Whitehaven, JCOAL, the Coal Preparation Society of India, Orica and the National Mining Association.
Source: World Coal Association