Amazon is leveraging bioleaching technology to source copper for its data centers, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. The tech giant has partnered with Nuton Technologies, a pioneer in the bioleaching process, with Amazon Web Services (AWS) becoming the initial client.
Nuton’s bioleaching technique uses natural microorganisms to recover copper from low-grade ore, a cost-effective method that reduces water usage and carbon emissions compared to traditional mining. This approach allows for the extraction of copper from dormant mining sites, offering a faster output than establishing new mines. Given the increasing demand for copper driven by the AI industry, essential for semiconductor manufacturing and data centers, this sustainable solution holds significant value.
In December, Nuton successfully produced the first copper cathode through bioleaching at the Johnson Camp mine, which will serve as the source of copper supply for Amazon’s data centers. AWS will further enhance Nuton’s mining processes by providing cloud-based data and analytics support, optimizing the efficiency and sustainability of the entire operation.
Source: The Verge