Green energy push a chance for mining sector to reshape dull and dirty image, Sydney conference hears

The chair of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Helen Clark told a Sydney mining conference that ‘bribes may be used’ to fast-track approvals. Photograph: David Gray/Reuters

The rush for minerals to supply the global effort to ditch fossil fuels will place added stress on the environment and could worsen corruption, but offers the mining sector the chance to recast its image, a major industry event has heard.

Even with the prospect of rapid expansion, the industry faces big challenges in attracting and keeping talent.