MIRO is continuously seeking to enhance communications with its minerals industry members and all parties with related interests. MIRO seeks views and advice on potential collaborative research projects, proposals and innovative concepts that will assist in the continuing enhancement of good practice to meet the requirements of environmentally and socially sustainable operations in the minerals industry.

Research Advisory Panels have been created to facilitate the provision of such advice on project ideas and research needs. The principal objectives of the RAPs are:

• to generate project concepts and proposals for collaborative research between industry partners and research providers in UK, Europe and internationally;

• to provide information and feedback from national funding agencies and organisations;

• to service a broad range of sectors relevant to members’ research needs;

• to invite recognised specialists to thematic workshop meetings.

RAPs that have operated from time-to-time include Mineral Extraction (MEDRAP), Waste Management, Process Technology, Materials Technology, Geoinformics and Aggregates.

Current active RAPs sponsored by MIRO are MEDRAP and the Aggregates RAP. These have been run successfully on an ad hoc basis and the aim is to have more regular meetings. MIRO also participates in two major research networks MinMetNet and MiMeMip which serve as RAPs covering waste, process and materials technology.

If you require more information or wish to participate in MIRO RAPs or join related networks please contact MIRO.