I. Bao Island Ore Veins: Decoding the Past and Present of Taiwan's Mining Industry

1. A Geological Gift: A Comprehensive Atlas of Diverse Mineral Resources

Taiwan, the "Treasure Island" situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire—a region prone to volcanic and seismic activities—boasts unique geological conditions that have endowed it with abundant mineral resources. Among Taiwan's metallic minerals, gold, copper, tungsten, and nickel stand out particularly prominently. In Hualien, located in eastern Taiwan, the interplay of tectonic plate collisions and volcanic activity has subjected rocks to intricate geological processes, ultimately forming rich ore veins containing gold and copper. Similarly, the Kaohsiung fold belt in southern Taiwan is also home to significant metal deposits, providing vital resources that support the region's thriving mining industry. Take the Jinguashi gold mine as an example—it’s situated in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, and is Taiwan’s most renowned deposit of precious metals. According to reports from the Geological Survey of Taiwan Province, the mineralization process is closely tied to hydrothermal systems associated with Andesite magma activities during the Pleistocene epoch. Historically, this site yielded substantial amounts of gold, often accompanied by copper and silver. Although large-scale mining operations have since ceased, the remaining resources still hold immense value for both geological research and potential future exploitation. Non-metallic minerals also play a crucial role in Taiwan’s economy. Hualien marble, celebrated for its distinctive patterns and superior quality, originates from metamorphic marbles within the Dannaowan Schist Group, boasting impressive reserves. Meanwhile, Keelung limestone—a key ingredient in cement production—is widely distributed across the western foothills, serving as a cornerstone for construction and industrial growth. Additionally, Hsinchu silica sand, prized for its uniform particle size and exceptional purity, is indispensable in industries such as glass manufacturing. Beyond these, Taiwan is also endowed with non-metallic resources like sulfur, asbestos, and mica, which are found in various regions across the island, catering to a wide range of industrial needs.

1. From Glory to Transformation: A Century of Mining Development

In 1895, after Japan occupied Taiwan, it launched a frenzied, predatory exploitation of the island's mineral resources. To this end, they established the "Taiwan Mining Survey Bureau," which employed modern geological methods to conduct the first systematic survey of Taiwan's mineral deposits. In 1905, bauxite was discovered in Keelung, and by 1910, reserves at the Ruifang-Jinguashi gold mine had been confirmed to reach 200 tons, paving the way for large-scale mining operations. Jinguashi became renowned as one of Asia's premier gold-producing regions, thanks to the introduction of cutting-edge mining equipment and techniques, including mechanized extraction and advanced flotation processes—reaching peak annual output of 17,000 taels at its height. Meanwhile, the Keelung coal mines were also extensively developed, with railways and port facilities constructed specifically to facilitate coal exports. By the 1930s, annual coal production had surged beyond 2 million tons. Although the colonial-era exploitation was driven primarily by imperialist motives, it nonetheless laid a solid industrial foundation for Taiwan's mining sector, introducing advanced technologies, management practices, and nurturing local expertise in the mining industry.

After World War II, Taiwan's mining industry ushered in new opportunities for development. With rapid economic growth came a surge in demand for mineral resources. As a result, the Miaoli oilfield and the Tainan natural gas field were successively developed to meet energy needs. In 1965, the "Taiwan Institute of Mining and Metallurgy" was established, driving innovation in flotation technology and boosting gold recovery rates to as high as 85%. Consequently, annual output of metallic minerals soared by 400%. In 1978, the "Mining Rationalization Plan" was implemented, consolidating small- and medium-sized mines into a more efficient, large-scale extraction system. However, as mining activities deepened, resource bottlenecks began to emerge. Coal and shallow-metal deposits gradually depleted, while mining costs continued to rise. By the end of the 20th century, imported coal, with its price advantage, dealt a severe blow to Taiwan’s domestic coal industry. In 2000, the last remaining coal mine—Sanxia Lifeng Coal Mine—closed its doors, marking the definitive decline of Taiwan’s traditional mining sector from its former glory.

Faced with resource depletion and growing environmental pressures, Taiwan’s mining industry has embarked on a green transformation journey. Since 2010, policies such as the "Outline for Sustainable Development of the Mining Industry" have been introduced one after another, driving the intelligent upgrading of mines. Drawing inspiration from Australia’s experience in mine automation, several mines have piloted unmanned transportation systems and remote-control equipment, significantly boosting productivity while cutting labor costs and mitigating safety risks. At the same time, efforts to explore deep-sea resources have intensified. Leveraging its strategic location adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, research institutions have deployed advanced technologies like deep-sea robots, leading to the discovery of polymetallic nodule fields in the Okinawa Trough and even securing physical samples of combustible ice from the Penghu Depression—promising new opportunities for future energy and mineral development. Meanwhile, some abandoned mines have been repurposed into industrial heritage parks, such as the Jin Guashi mining area, where remnants of mining activities have been preserved and transformed into popular tourist attractions, effectively turning ecological value into economic benefits.

1. Mining Constellation Map: Insights into the Rise and Fall of Taiwan's Prominent Mining Regions
2. The Legend of Metal Mines: The Blood-Stained Romance of Gold and Copper Ore

The Jin Guashi mining area is堪称 a globally rare, high-grade gold-copper coexisting deposit, boasting an impressive and illustrious history. During the Japanese colonial period, the "Jin Yufeng" ship truly shone here, setting an astonishing record of producing 10 tons of gold annually. Back then, the mines were alive with the roar of machinery, as miners worked tirelessly day and night, fueled by their dreams of wealth. Not only was Jin Guashi renowned for its exceptionally high gold output, but the gold produced there was also of unparalleled quality—so much so that its exquisite gold artifacts became highly sought after in international markets, providing a powerful boost to Japan’s economic growth. Today, though the once-bustling mines have long been abandoned, they’ve undergone a remarkable transformation, now serving as the "Gold Museum." Inside, visitors can explore a meticulously curated display of the cyanide gold-extraction process—from the initial mining and ore selection all the way to the final step of refining pure gold. Each stage is vividly brought to life through authentic artifacts, lifelike models, and engaging multimedia presentations. Even the tools once wielded by miners and recreated scenes from their daily lives allow guests to feel as though they’ve stepped back in time, experiencing firsthand the passionate yet arduous era of mining. This place has now become a landmark destination for industrial heritage tourism, drawing countless visitors each year eager to uncover the fascinating stories hidden behind the golden legacy of Jin Guashi.

The Jiufen mining area gained widespread fame as the filming location for Hayao Miyazaki’s "Spirited Away," but in reality, it is a centuries-old gold-mining site steeped in rich mining heritage and cultural significance. Today, the preserved former office building of the "Taiyang Mining Company," though weathered by time, still boasts a distinctive architectural style. Its dignified facade seems to quietly narrate the glory of its storied past. Another remarkable feature of the Jiufen mining area is the remnants of the vertical shafts, which vividly showcase Taiwan’s early adoption of "tunnel-style mining" techniques. Back when shallow ore veins were being exploited, miners relied on rudimentary tools and sheer determination, painstakingly chiseling through rock bit by bit—each inch fueled by their unwavering hope. Meanwhile, scenes of bamboo-sieve mining are also frequently observed, as workers skillfully use these traditional tools to meticulously sift out impurities from the ore, carefully separating the precious gold. Though these age-old mining techniques may appear simple at first glance, they embody the profound reverence our ancestors held for nature—and their relentless dedication to making the most of life.

1. Energy and Mineral Memories: A Spatiotemporal Dialogue Between Coal and Geothermal

The Keelung Coal Mining Complex was Taiwan’s earliest mining area to achieve mechanization, leaving a significant mark on the history of modern Chinese mining development. In 1876, Shen Baozhen strongly advocated for the introduction of Western-style shaft mining technology, breathing new life into Taiwan’s coal industry. The construction of vertical shafts dramatically boosted coal extraction efficiency, laying the groundwork for future large-scale exploitation. The Yan family’s “Taiyang Mining Company” played a pivotal role in the growth of the Keelung Coal Mining Complex, once controlling as much as 17% of the island’s total coal production capacity. They continuously refined their production techniques and expanded operations, shipping Keelung’s coal to various regions and providing crucial energy support for Taiwan’s industrial advancement. However, as times changed, by the 1970s, oil gradually replaced coal as the primary energy source, dealing a severe blow to the Keelung Coal Mining Complex. Falling coal prices and shrinking market demand pushed the mines into financial hardship. In 1979, the last mine in Keelung officially closed, marking the definitive end of this once-brilliant coal-mining hub. Today, the remnants—the Pingxi Railway branch line and the abandoned coal-washing plant—stand quietly in place, silently witnessing the rise and fall of the "black gold economy," while also serving as poignant reminders of that era’s rich industrial legacy.

The Qing Shui geothermal field is a gift of clean energy bestowed upon Taiwan by Neogene volcanic activity, and its potential value is immeasurable. Exploration data indicate that the area boasts geothermal resources capable of generating up to 100 MW of power, offering fresh hope for Taiwan’s ongoing energy restructuring efforts. In 2020, Taiwan’s first geothermal power plant was completed at the Qing Shui geothermal field, marking a significant milestone in the island’s pursuit of geothermal energy development. This pioneering plant employs an advanced "binary cycle system," which harnesses the energy from high-temperature hot water. Through a heat exchanger, the thermal energy is transferred to an organic working fluid, causing it to vaporize and drive a turbine generator to produce electricity. Not only does this cutting-edge technology enhance energy efficiency, but it also minimizes environmental impact, enabling the efficient utilization of clean energy. Beyond power generation, the high-temperature hot water from the Qing Shui geothermal field has also brought remarkable benefits to local agriculture, providing convenient warm-water irrigation for surrounding farmlands. Rich in various minerals and trace elements, the geothermal water promotes robust crop growth and significantly improves the quality of agricultural products. Around the Qing Shui geothermal field, fields thrive luxuriantly under the nourishing embrace of this unique resource, creating a distinctive and picturesque agricultural landscape.

1. Non-Metallic Mineral Pillars: The Infrastructure Code of Stone and Sand & Gravel

The Hualien marble mining area, leveraging the Tairoluo Mountain Range's exceptionally high-quality marble resources, has become a core region for Taiwan's stone industry. The marble here boasts a hard texture, delicate veining, and rich, vibrant colors—making it highly sought after by both domestic and international markets. To efficiently extract these precious stone resources, the mine employs "diamond wire saw cutting" technology. This advanced technique capitalizes on diamond's unparalleled hardness and wear resistance, using the high-speed rotation of a wire saw to cut marble into slabs of various sizes. The resulting surfaces are smooth and perfectly flat, significantly enhancing the material's utilization rate. Products from the Hualien marble mining area span multiple sectors, including architectural panels and intricate sculptural artworks. Annually, the mine exports over 500,000 tons of marble worldwide, earning substantial economic benefits for Taiwan. Among these, the Su'ao White Marble stands out as the top choice for Italy's premier architectural projects, thanks to its exceptional purity—reaching up to 95%—and its flawless, pristine white hue. This remarkable material not only highlights Taiwan's superior stone craftsmanship on the global stage but also cements the island's reputation as a leader in high-quality marble production.

The Zhuoshui River sand and gravel mine is the largest natural sand and gravel deposit formed by the river's alluvial processes, playing an indispensable role in Taiwan’s infrastructure development. To achieve the sustainable utilization of these resources, the mine has adopted a "river-based rotational extraction + ecological restoration" model, carefully planning extraction areas to ensure orderly and efficient mining operations. At the same time, advanced smart screening equipment is deployed, enabling rapid and precise separation of coarse and fine sands to meet the diverse needs of various construction projects. According to statistics, the Zhuoshui River sand and gravel mine produces up to 20 million tons annually, supplying 60% of the island’s total demand for construction-grade sand. From the construction of towering skyscrapers to the paving of roads and bridges, the sand and gravel from the Zhuoshui River have provided a solid material foundation for Taiwan’s urbanization process.

1. Mining Innovation: Taiwan's Mining Industry Breaks Through with Technology and Embraces Environmental Practices
2. The iterative upgrade of mining processes

Once upon a time, Taiwan's metal mining industry had long relied on the traditional "room-and-pillar method," where miners had to crouch low and manually chip away at rock in narrow tunnels—resulting in incredibly high labor intensity yet painfully low efficiency. Fortunately, with advancements in technology, this situation has been fundamentally transformed. Today, Taiwan has introduced remotely operated rock-drilling rigs imported from South Africa. These "steel giants," equipped with nimble robotic arms, can perform precision tasks even in the most challenging underground environments. At the same time, these systems are seamlessly integrated with a 3D ground stress monitoring system, enabling real-time tracking of rock stress changes and providing early warnings of potential hazards—thus boosting single-shift excavation efficiency by as much as three times. In coal mining, the once-widely used "longwall mining method" is also undergoing an intelligent upgrade. Smart, fully-integrated mining equipment now features automated hydraulic supports that automatically stabilize the roof, replacing the previous manual support methods. This not only significantly reduces the risk of roof collapses but also dramatically enhances coal extraction efficiency. Operators can now remotely monitor and control underground machinery from a central command center on the surface, ushering in a new era of intelligent and safe coal-mining operations.

In limestone mining, the application of "digital detonator delay blasting" technology can be rightly described as a revolutionary advancement. By precisely controlling the timing and sequence of detonators, this method keeps flying rocks within a safe radius of 50 meters, significantly reducing the impact of blasting on the surrounding environment. Meanwhile, open-pit mining operations simultaneously implement the process of "topsoil removal—zoned stockpiling—vegetation restoration." Take the Hualien Heping Mining Area as an example: During extraction, the topsoil is first carefully stripped off and stored in designated zones. After mining concludes, this carefully preserved topsoil is used to backfill the mined areas, followed by the replanting of suitable vegetation. Thanks to years of dedicated effort, the mine has achieved a remarkable vegetation recovery rate of 90%, successfully realizing the goal of "mining one area while restoring another," ensuring that the mine maintains a healthy ecological environment even after operations cease.

1. The stringent constraints of environmental protection policies

According to the Mining Act, Taiwanese companies are required to set aside 3% of their revenue into a "Mine Reclamation Fund," a system that provides robust financial support for ecological restoration of mining sites. Take the restoration of the former Yanjia Mine in Keelung as an example: the once-abandoned mine pits have been transformed into rainwater collection ponds, designed to gather and store rainwater, thereby supplying vital hydration for the surrounding vegetation. Meanwhile, heavy-metal-resistant plants have been strategically planted around the area—these plants are capable of absorbing heavy metals from the soil, effectively reducing contamination levels. After years of dedicated restoration efforts, by 2024, the region's biodiversity index had increased by 40%, breathing new life into what was once a devastated mining site.

Over 500 mining sites across the island have been equipped with IoT sensors, creating a robust, intelligent monitoring network that continuously tracks critical environmental indicators such as dust concentrations and groundwater pH levels. At a nickel mine in Kaohsiung, when leachate from a tailings pond once exceeded the nickel ion standard by 0.1 ppm, the smart monitoring system immediately triggered an automatic shutdown and corrective action order. Compared to 2019, the efficiency of responding to such early warnings improved by 70% in 2023, effectively preventing environmental incidents. Thanks to this intelligent monitoring network, regulatory authorities can promptly grasp real-time changes in the mining areas' environmental conditions, swiftly addressing any violations and ensuring that mining operations proceed smoothly and sustainably within an environmentally friendly framework.

1. The Path to Breakthrough: When Traditional Mining Meets Future Opportunities
2. Deep Sea Meets New Energy: Pioneering the "Second Mining District"

Leveraging its unique geographical location, Taiwan is actively engaged in exploring deep-sea resources in the Pacific Ocean, relying on its ocean research vessel, the "Haiyan No. 5." In the Bashi Channel, researchers have successfully identified polymetallic nodule resources totaling approximately 50 million tons, thanks to cutting-edge detection technologies. These polymetallic nodules are rich in strategic metals such as nickel, copper, and cobalt—crucial materials indispensable for modern industrial development. Moreover, during their deep-sea exploration efforts, the research team also discovered traces of combustible ice, or natural gas hydrates—a highly efficient and clean new energy source. In the northern continental slope region of the South China Sea, the combustible ice reservoirs have been found to reach a thickness of up to 200 meters, indicating abundant reserves. After years of intensive technological development and pilot extraction trials, Taiwan has achieved significant breakthroughs in the commercial exploitation of combustible ice. Currently, relevant authorities anticipate realizing the commercial-scale extraction of combustible ice by 2030, a milestone that will inject fresh momentum into Taiwan’s energy restructuring and sustainable development initiatives.

Against the backdrop of shifting global rare-earth supply chains, Taiwan is actively promoting its "Urban Mining" initiative to mitigate potential impacts from the mainland's rare-earth supply network. This program aims to extract rare metals such as indium and gallium from electronic waste, enabling the recycling of these valuable resources. In 2024, Hsinchu Science Park completed the construction of its first automated dismantling line, which leverages cutting-edge automation technologies and processes to efficiently disassemble and process end-of-life circuit boards. The line boasts an annual capacity to handle up to 500,000 tons of waste circuit boards, with a metal recovery rate as high as 92%. This not only significantly enhances resource efficiency and reduces reliance on virgin materials but also minimizes the environmental pollution caused by electronic waste.

1. Cross-strait Collaboration: The Resonance of Technological and Market Advantages

The mainland boasts advanced technology and extensive experience in the mining sector. Take drilling equipment as an example—China's "Crust No.1" 10,000-meter drill rig represents a remarkable achievement in deep-drilling technology, equipped with powerful capabilities that allow it to penetrate up to 10,000 meters underground, unlocking vital geological insights from deep within the Earth. In the field of beneficiation reagent development, the mainland also holds a global leading position, having created a variety of highly efficient reagents that significantly enhance ore separation efficiency and improve the quality of refined concentrates. Meanwhile, Taiwan excels in the meticulous management of mining operations, leveraging cutting-edge management principles and information technologies to achieve streamlined production processes and optimize resource allocation. On the international stone market front, Taiwan has cultivated deep-rooted expertise over many years, amassing robust market resources and a loyal customer base, enabling it to effectively promote its stone products onto the global stage. Currently, cross-strait cooperation in the mining sector continues to deepen. Both sides have already embarked on joint exploration for oil and gas resources in the Taiwan Strait Basin, pooling their technological expertise and resources to jointly explore offshore hydrocarbon reserves, thereby boosting exploration efficiency and success rates. In terms of green mine construction, the two sides are collaboratively developing a "Green Mine Standards System," working together to drive sustainable development in the mining industry. Notably, in 2023, the Xiamen Institute of Rare Earth Materials, in partnership with Taiwan's Industrial Technology Research Institute, successfully developed a "low-toxicity gold-leaching agent" that reduces cyanide usage by 60%, significantly minimizing environmental risks during the gold-extraction process. This innovative technology has already been piloted at the Jinguashi mining area, yielding impressive results and serving as a valuable model and reference for other mines striving toward greener, more sustainable practices.

1. Cultural and Tourism Integration: The "Reverse Growth" Magic of Mines

The Jiufen Gold Mine Museum cleverly integrates AR technology to offer visitors a unique and immersive experience of mining culture. Inside the museum, guests hold a "virtual gold panning tray," instantly transporting them back in time to the golden era of gold prospecting. With the help of AR technology, visitors can vividly witness the process of separating fine gold from sand—and even get hands-on to savor the thrill of panning for gold themselves. This innovative approach not only deepens tourists' understanding of Jiufen's rich mining history and cultural heritage but also breathes fresh energy into the preservation and evolution of traditional mining practices.

The former Taiyang Mining Complex has successfully transformed into the "Keelung Industrial Story Museum" through renovation. Inside, visitors can explore vintage exhibits such as steam locomotives and miner's lamps—equipment that once played a vital role in mining operations but now stands as treasured historical artifacts, vividly chronicling Taiwan’s rich mining heritage. In 2024, the museum welcomed over 500,000 visitors, with ticket revenues not only supporting the venue’s ongoing operations but also funding ecological restoration efforts in the surrounding mining area. By embracing an innovative model of cultural and tourism integration, the Taiyang Mining Complex has undergone a stunning metamorphosis—from an abandoned mine site to a thriving cultural and tourist attraction—pioneering a new paradigm for "revitalizing mining heritage." This inspiring example offers valuable insights and guidance for the repurposing and sustainable development of other derelict mining areas around the world.

Conclusion: Finding a New Direction for the Mining Industry Amidst Transformation and Innovation

From the predatory exploitation during the Japanese colonial period to today's intelligent, green mines, Taiwan's mining industry has undergone a transformation that mirrors a condensed history of industrial civilization. As traditional mineral resources gradually fade into the background, deep-sea resources, geothermal energy, and the circular economy are now shaping a new blueprint for industry. Perhaps the true value of Taiwan's mining industry lies not in how many tons of ore it extracts, but in its ability to strike a delicate balance—between resource development and ecological preservation, between historical legacy and technological innovation. After all, this is what truly constitutes the "Treasure Island Mining Revelation" left for the world to ponder.