Xplorer 2026 – Redesign Mining: Event Highlights

Kajaani University of Applied Sciences’ (KAMK) Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) activities attracted strong interest during both the public and scientific days of Xplorer 2026 – Redesign Mining.

More than 100 visitors and participants attended the event, gaining valuable insights into the latest advances in sustainable mining, circular economy solutions, environmental monitoring, and resource-efficient technologies presented by Finland’s leading RDI organisations.

Among the showcased initiatives, AWE, INNOMIN, and ProWater, generated particularly strong engagement, sparking lively discussions on the future of responsible mining, innovative water management, digitalisation, and environmental stewardship in the Nordic region.

As a proud member of the Xplorer network, KAMK extends its sincere gratitude to all organisers, partners, exhibitors, and participants whose contributions made the event a success. Together, we continue to drive innovation and support the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient mining sector.

Two people standing on their event stand. Table full of brochures at the front and roll ups and screen in the behind.
Saara Österberg (KAMK) and Elina Egorova (KAMK) in the Xplorer 2026 – Redesign Mining.
Two people standing on an event stand. Roll up and screen behing them.
Samuel Hartikainen (University of Oulu, INNOMIN project) and Elina Egorova (KAMK).

The international Xplorer 2026 – Redesign Mining conference was held in Oulu, Finland, from 9 to 11 June 2026. The event was organised by the Xplorer Network, an innovation ecosystem dedicated to advancing sustainable mineral resource utilisation, promoting circular economy principles, and supporting the transition towards zero-impact mining.  The conference brought together researchers, industry representatives, policymakers, and other stakeholders to discuss emerging technologies, innovative solutions, and best practices for the sustainable development of the mining sector.

The current members of the Xplorer Network include LUT University, the University of Oulu, the University of Eastern Finland, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, Lapland University of Applied Sciences, and Sofi Filtration. Together, these organisations foster multidisciplinary collaboration aimed at addressing the environmental, technological, and societal challenges associated with the mining industry while promoting responsible resource management.

Arctic Water Excellence – AWE ja Environmental efficiency for mineral processing through the innovation network – INNOMIN projects are co-funded by the European Union. ProWater project’s co-funder is Interreg Aurora.