The planning for the highly anticipated twelfth International Heavy Haul Association (IHHA) Conference is well under way and it promises to be a remarkable gathering of heavy haul professionals at an engaging and enlightening event for heavy haul professionals globally.

Providing a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration and innovation, the conference – which will take place from August 27 to 30, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – is hosted by the IHHA in collaboration with logistics company MRS Logistics and global miner Vale.

The conference aims to explore the application of heavy haul innovations for a sustainable world under the theme “Applications of Haul Innovations for a Sustainable World”.

Preceding the main conference, a two-day technical workshop will provide valuable insights into the technical aspects that can enhance rail logistics operators' efficiency. Esteemed technical experts from around the world will share best practices and present case studies, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of heavy haul operations.

The main conference will comprise plenary sessions and technical parallel sessions. During the plenary sessions, renowned speakers and panelists will address matters of strategic importance under the subthemes of Heavy Haul Vision 2030; Heavy Haul Sustainability; Integration of Mines, Rail and Ports; and IHHA Strategic Roadmap.

These sessions aim to foster meaningful discussions and offer valuable insights into the future of heavy haul.

The technical parallel sessions, meanwhile, received an overwhelming response, with 508 abstracts submitted by authors from 120 organisations and 30 countries.

After a rigorous selection process, 200 abstracts were chosen to be converted into high-quality, peer-reviewed technical papers for oral presentation. There will also be 93 poster presentations, providing a platform for researchers to showcase their latest findings and innovations.

Following the main conference, MRS Logistics and Vale will host a technical tour, offering attendees the opportunity to visit their heavy haul rail and port operations. This hands-on experience will provide invaluable insights into the practical implementation of heavy haul techniques.

Registrations are now open, with the early bird registration fee having been extended to July 28.

Visit www.ihhario2023.com for more information.