The UK mining and quarrying sector is expected to see a steady decline in employment from 2024 to 2028, with figures forecasted to drop from 51.16 thousand employees in 2024 to 48.16 thousand by 2028. This represents a significant year-on-year decrease of 1.53% on average. This declining trend reflects a broader shift observed over the last two years, as well as a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately -1.53% over the five-year period from 2024 to 2028.
Future trends to watch for include the impact of technological advancements and automation, which could further reduce labor needs, as well as policy changes and environmental regulations that might influence sector employment levels. Additionally, industry efforts towards sustainability and diversification could play pivotal roles in reshaping workforce dynamics.