The new strategic agreement broadens the organisations' existing cooperation on developing technology and strengthening competence for mining and smelting operations, according to a joint statement. 

The agreement covers the development of automation solutions and optimising resource utilisation within smelters. Projects already underway include process automation and digital twins, human-machine interaction in automation and sustainability management. 

"We are already a leader in areas such as climate performance and I look forward to future efforts to further develop the business," said Mikael Staffas, president and chief executive of Boliden.

The university has also been an important recruitment base for Boliden. 

"Attracting and further developing skills and technologies is an important part of Boliden's strategy and requires long-term work," added Staffas.

Senior university staff underlined the environmental focus of the partnership.

"In connection with the climate transition, we are seeing there is substantial demand for metals and minerals. At the same time, Lulea University of Technology and Boliden have a long and successful history and together we can create better conditions for a more sustainable supply of raw materials," said Pär Weihed, professor and pro vice-chancellor.