This week marked a significant advancement in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region as experts from China's top academic institutions launched a new coal resource development laboratory. Named after the iconic Tianshan Mountains, the lab is spearheaded by the Chinese Academy of Engineering and aims to tackle the scientific and technological challenges facing the local coal mining industry.
Xinjiang boasts an impressive 2.19 trillion tonnes of coal resources, representing nearly 40 percent of China's total. Despite its abundance, the region has historically lagged in exploration, efficient utilization, and transitioning to greener energy solutions. The new lab seeks to change this by focusing on safe and intelligent coal mining, clean processing, water resource protection, ecological restoration, integrating coal with renewable energy, and exploring coal bed methane resources.
Academician Peng Suping leads the expert team with a vision to establish a world-class sci-tech platform. \"Our goal is to provide prompt solutions to technical challenges within local industrial chains, promoting large-scale, safe, intelligent, efficient, and environmentally friendly coal resource development,\" Peng stated. With his expertise in mine engineering geology and geophysical prospecting, Peng brings valuable insights to the initiative.
Located in Urumqi, the regional capital, the laboratory has garnered support from three local colleges and universities. Additionally, numerous large domestic enterprises have enthusiastically joined the effort, signaling strong industry backing.
Xinjiang's coal production saw significant growth in 2023, with raw coal output reaching 457 million tonnes—a 10.7 percent increase from the previous year. This surge secured Xinjiang's position as the top coal-producing province in China. Moreover, the region achieved a milestone by surpassing 100 million tonnes in coal exports for the first time last year, highlighting its growing influence in the global coal market.
As Xinjiang continues to innovate and expand its coal industry, the new laboratory stands as a beacon of sustainable and intelligent mining practices, paving the way for a more efficient and environmentally responsible future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
