The mining and metals industry encompasses the underground and surface excavation of valuable minerals, metals, and other natural resources, along with the technologies and logistics that support these operations. Major global players in this sector include countries such as India, South Africa, Russia, and Australia, each contributing significantly to the global supply of metal ores, coal, crude and shale oil, and precious or semi-precious stones, among a wide range of economically valuable extracts.

This industry traces its roots back to prehistoric times, when early humans began extracting stones and ceramics for utility and shelter. As time progressed, mining evolved from surface-level discoveries to deep-earth excavation, uncovering metals and gemstones that became essential for industrial, technological, and ornamental purposes.

However, the mining sector has long been associated with environmental and safety challenges. Globally, the industry is often scrutinized for its ecological impact, including land degradation, deforestation, and pollution. Additionally, mining operations are inherently high-risk due to their susceptibility to natural disasters, such as earthquakes and volcanic activity, making worker safety and disaster preparedness top priorities.