The natural resources sector relies heavily on diesel-powered vehicles, mobile equipment and remote power systems across mining, oil and gas, and coal operations. In this part of the economy, low carbon liquid fuels (LCLFs) are one option for reducing emissions while electrification, battery-electric equipment, renewable power and other decarbonisation pathways continue to develop.
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Natural resources at a glance
How the natural resources sector is reducing emissions
Natural resources sector decarbonisation involves a portfolio of measures. The right mix differs by commodity, site, equipment fleet, grid access, haul profile and infrastructure timing
.
1
Electrified haulage and on-site equipment
Battery-electric haul trucks, trolley assist, charging infrastructure and electric drills are being developed or deployed where they fit site layouts and duty cycles.
2
Renewable energy and microgrids
Remote and off-grid sites can combine grid connection, on-site renewables, storage and power-system upgrades to reduce stationary energy emissions.
3
Energy efficiency and operational improvement
Mine planning, maintenance, ventilation, dispatch systems and energy management can reduce fuel use and improve productivity.
4
Drop-in low carbon liquid fuels
Renewable diesel and biodiesel blends can support equipment and remote operations where electrification is not yet practical.
Fuels for natural resources
For existing natural resources fleets, the most relevant low carbon liquid fuel options are renewable diesel and biodiesel. Australia’s fuel quality framework distinguishes conventional diesel, paraffinic diesel and biodiesel, and the Resources Sector Plan recognises low carbon fuels as a credible pathway where electrification or renewable infrastructure is not feasible .
On-site fuel handling
Step 1
Store it safely
Bulk and temporary tanks must be secure, bunded, clearly labelled and sited to protect waterways, haul roads and operating areas. AS 1940 is the benchmark: a bund holds at least 110% of the largest tank, or 25% of all tanks, whichever is greater.
Step 2
Refuel in the field
Mobile refuelling keeps haul trucks, drills, loaders, generators and pumps productive. It needs trained operators, spill response equipment on hand and accurate fuel issue records.
Step 3
Test before use
Fuel that has travelled long distances or sat in storage can pick up water, dust and sediment. Test on site before it reaches equipment. Biodiesel blends absorb water and oxidise, so they need closer watching than renewable diesel.
Step 4
Approve the change
OEM and maintenance teams sign off any fuel change first, covering engines, filters, after-treatment systems and warranty. Renewable diesel (HVO) and conventional diesel each have their own Australian standard, so keep specifications, labelling and supplier approvals documented.
Natural resources fuels today
Across much of the natural resources sector, conventional diesel remains central to extraction and processing operations, especially for mobile equipment and remote power. The Resources Sector Plan identifies fuel combustion emissions from vehicles, equipment and power systems as a major decarbonisation focus .
Conventional diesel remains central
Diesel is used in mobile equipment, service fleets, generators and other high-utilisation site assets.
Remote operations matter
Liquid fuels remain especially relevant where charging infrastructure, grid connection or renewable power systems are limited or still being developed.
Fuel transition is one pathway
Fuel changes can sit alongside electrification, renewable power, energy efficiency and other technology changes.
Policy, regulation and technical guidance
The sections below cover the legislation, standards, policy, certification criteria and organisations shaping low carbon liquid fuel use across the natural resources sector, grouped by the role they play.
Australia
Fuel quality standards for fuels sold in Australia
Sets what a fuel must meet to be legally sold in Australia, under the Fuel Quality Standards Act 2000 and its determinations.
International
ASTM D975 diesel fuel specification
The ASTM International specification for diesel fuel.
International
ASTM D7467 biodiesel blend (B6 to B20) specification
The ASTM International specification for diesel blended with 6% to 20% biodiesel.
Australia
Guarantee of Origin
Australia’s voluntary scheme that tracks and certifies the emissions intensity of products, starting with hydrogen. Launched November 2025 and set to expand to low carbon liquid fuels.
International
European Union (EU) Renewable Energy Directive (RED III)
The EU’s sustainability and emissions saving rules for renewable fuels, including the renewable diesel and biodiesel blends relevant to natural resources equipment.
International
International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC)
Global certification for sustainable feedstocks and fuels. Used to verify the sustainability and life cycle emissions of renewable diesel and biodiesel supplied to industrial users, including mining, and widely used for EU renewable fuel pathways.
Australia
Bioenergy Australia
Peak industry body for the Australian bioenergy sector, representing producers, technology providers and end users of low carbon liquid fuels, biogas and bio-based products. Publishes industry strategy, including the Securing our Fuel Future roadmap.
Australia
Minerals Council of Australia (MCA)
National peak industry body for Australia’s minerals sector and a key voice on competitiveness, sustainability and sector policy.
Australia
Austmine
National industry body for Australia’s mining equipment, technology and services sector, with a focus on innovation and sustainable mining.
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