“To mine or not to mine?” why the World Mining Congress matters more than ever

„To mine, or not to mine” that is the question… or so we theatrically pretend. With those words, the Chairperson of the World Mining Congress prof. Marek Cała, opened WMC 2026 in Lima, borrowing from Shakespeare before delivering a powerful reminder of mining’s role in modern society. Unlike Prince Hamlet, the mining industry does not have the luxury of philosophical hesitation. As Marek Cała noted, “Steel does not materialise itself into existence. Copper does not emerge from philosophical reflection. And lithium, I regret to inform the poets among us, does not grow on trees.”

The message resonated far beyond the Congress hall. At a time when the world is demanding more critical minerals to support electrification, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, defense systems, and the energy transition, the question is no longer whether mining should exist. The question is how it can continue to evolve.

Why WMC 2026 Is one of the most important mining events in the world

Since the first Congress was held in Warsaw in 1958 under the motto “Mining Construction,” the event has served as the premier global platform where industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, technology innovators, investors, and mining professionals come together to shape the future of the sector. Over nearly seven decades, twenty-seven Congresses have connected generations of mining professionals across political systems, continents, and cultures. The significance of this mission was reflected in the President’s tribute to Bolesław Krupiński, the visionary founder who brought together mining experts from both sides of the Iron Curtain. “Miners recognise no Iron Curtains. They recognise no political systems, no ideological divisions, and no artificial borders. Miners everywhere share the same professional identity, the same challenges, the same respect for one another, and the same commitment to their work.”

In an increasingly fragmented world, that principle may be more relevant today than ever before.

Trust, transformation and technology

The theme of WMC 2026, Mining for the Future,  rests on three pillars that define the industry’s next chapter. Trust, built through partnerships, transparency, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. Transformation, driven by continuous improvement and the pursuit of sustainable solutions to global challenges. Technology, powered by innovation, talent, scientific excellence, and responsible investment. These themes are not theoretical. They reflect the issues dominating boardrooms, government policy, investment decisions, and research agendas worldwide.

Mining and the future of civilization

Perhaps the most memorable part of the opening address came when Marek Cała challenged common misconceptions about the industry. “To mine is not a dilemma; it is a prerequisite.” He continued: “Without mining, there is no energy transition. Without mining, there is no infrastructure. Without mining, there is no digitalisation. Without mining, there is no modern civilisation.” And then came the line that may define WMC 2026: “Mining is not everything. But without mining, everything is nothing.”

Looking beyond lima

The conversations taking place in Lima are not only about today’s challenges. They are about the future of global resource development. As governments seek secure supply chains, companies pursue decarbonization, and societies demand both minerals and sustainability, the mining industry finds itself at the center of one of the most important transformations of our time.

The World Mining Congress remains the place where those conversations happen. Not because mining has all the answers. But because it brings together the people committed to finding them.