**Preface to "Green Coal Mining Techniques 2020"**

Globally, coal mining is slowly reducing as alternative renewable energy sources such as solar energy become more cost effective. Coal will, however, still be mined for years to come, especially the higher grade bituminous coal that is needed for steel production. It is therefore important that research into green and sustainable coal mining continues so that safety continues to improve and the environmental impact of mining is reduced or eliminated. Collaborative research is important and is growing, especially between universities both domestically and globally. Green mining, especially environmental protection and the social license to operate, have become the front and center of the apparatus to reduce the impact of mining on the environment, especially since the UN published its Sustainable Development Goals. Although some will say that not enough has been done, the progress over the last decade has been significant and progress continues. Mining is key to our survival along with water, food and energy, and the fourth industrial revolution has the potential to benefit the mining industry the most. It is an exciting time to be in mining.

> **A.J.S. (Sam) Spearing** *Editor*
