Multidisciplinary Integration and Networking for INcreased sustainability and multi-resources valorization of Geothermal Brines

Objective

MiningBrines offers an innovative training program to address Europe's strategic need for sustainable access to critical raw materials (CRM), energy gases (EG) and renewable energies. 19 Doctoral Candidates (DCs) will receive interdisciplinary training in geosciences, biogeochemistry, artificial intelligence (AI), and socio-economic analysis, equipping them with advanced skills in reservoir modeling, machine learning and biogeochemical processes. DCs will develop intuitive fluid chemistry modeling workflows and innovative multi-criteria intelligent decision support tools, preparing them to drive innovation in geothermal brine mining while collaborating with academic and industrial partners. MiningBrines introduces novel techniques to maximize geothermal multi-resource recovery while minimizing environmental impact. Key innovations include microbial-driven CRM recovery, customized modeling workflows, scalable AI models, and decision support tools that consider technological, economic, and societal aspects. These advances aim to reduce the environmental footprint of resource extraction and align with the sustainability goals of the EU Green Deal. MiningBrines supports the EU's Critical Raw Materials Act by combining CRM and EG recovery with renewable energy production and circular economy principles, reducing Europe's import dependency and strengthening resilience. In addition, MiningBrines emphasizes collaborative education to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals capable of transforming geothermal multi-resources into a key driver of Europe's green transition. The impact of MiningBrines goes beyond scientific advances, fostering a skilled workforce for academic and industrial sectors, while establishing Europe as a global leader in sustainable resource management. MiningBrines promotes public awareness of the multiple benefits of geothermal energy, setting a standard for green industrial practices and long-term strategic autonomy.