South 32 address the implementation of artificial intelligence, and its significant potential in improving aspects of lives and the safety and productivity of business.

South 32 predominantly focus on the development of AI. However, for 2025, they are pursuing specific areas where they believe AI can deliver both near- and long-term improvements.

These improvements include: Safety risk management; Production throughput, yields and blending enhancements; Operational enhancements with sustainability-related benefits; Exploration and orebody knowledge to improve speed and efficiency; Workforce productivity through efficiency.

South 32 added: "In FY24, our focus was primarily on machine learning/AI advisory systems, leading to the development of systems to support improved output and waste reduction at Australia Manganese and optimise energy usage at Cerro Matoso.

Our focus in FY25 includes using generative AI to drive improved safety outcomes and productivity, for example through the development of large language models to enhance interactions with safety data. We are also investigating the potential to use vision AI to reduce risk in vehicle interactions and the scaling of machine learning models to improve operational productivity across operations and projects.

While we believe our overall AI risk profile is currently low, we understand that this risk will increase over time as the use of AI evolves. We are working to assess and improve our AI-related controls and governance to support the safe and responsible use of AI in our business. In addition, we are evaluating our AI approach against external responsible AI frameworks to identify opportunities to further align to safe and responsible AI best practice."