Computer programmes that use artificial intelligence (AI) to model orebodies and plan mines optimally have already been introduced by Copper 360, says the JSE AltX-listed Northern Cape copper mining company, which is developing the Rietberg copper mine, the first of a dozen copper mining assets it has on its development list. Next in line for South Africa’s only pure copper play, which is already producing copper plate from surface material, will be smartwatches on the wrists of employees to uplift their well-being and even check their heart rates.