Leaked documents reveal BHP halted plans for a beneficiation plant at its Jimblebar mine in Western Australia. The project would have produced higher grade iron ore, allowing steel mills in China to reduce coal use and cut global emissions by 1.7 million tonnes annually. Despite the potential for carbon reductions and strategic value against future carbon taxes, BHP stopped the project due to marginal economics. The company prioritized other projects focused on increasing shipment volumes over decarbonization efforts in the Pilbara region.
