Mining magnate Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest has received significant recognition for his ambitious vision to pivot Fortescue Metals Group into a leader in green energy and hydrogen projects. His efforts have earned him a spot as the only Australian on Time magazine's prestigious list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2025. The publication noted, "While some people say that transforming the energy system is too challenging, Andrew Forrest has made it his mission to prove them wrong." This accolade highlights Forrest's commitment not only to his role as chairman of Fortescue but also to his broader endeavors through the investment group Tattarang and the philanthropic Minderoo Foundation.
Forrest's journey in the mining industry has been marked by a significant transformation of Fortescue, which he founded in 2003. Originally known for its iron ore production, the company is now making strides to become a clean-energy powerhouse. In 2020, Forrest established Fortescue Future Industries, a subsidiary aimed at leading this green transition. By 2023, Fortescue Future Industries and Fortescue Metals Group were merged into a single brand, reflecting a unified approach to both mining and sustainable energy solutions.
The ambitious targets set by the company are noteworthy. By 2030, Fortescue aims to operate its Australian iron ore facilities entirely on green energy, achieving real zero terrestrial emissions (Scope 1 and 2). Furthermore, the company has set a net zero Scope 3 target by 2040, which encompasses all emissions across its supply chain. This comprehensive approach signals a significant shift in the mining sector, traditionally seen as a major contributor to global emissions.
In 2022, Fortescue made headlines by acquiring Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) and unveiling the world’s first zero-emission “Infinity Train,” which utilizes gravitational energy to recharge its battery electric systems. This innovation represents a critical step towards reducing the carbon footprint of mining operations. Through its Fortescue Zero division, the company is not only developing and manufacturing zero emissions battery systems and hydrogen production technologies but is also selling this technology to other companies, further expanding the impact of its innovations.
Additionally, Fortescue has established Fortescue Capital, a green energy investment accelerator platform based in New York. This initiative aims to foster investments in sustainable energy projects, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and promote renewable energy solutions.
In his executive chairman's message in Fortescue's annual report published in August 2024, Forrest reported that the company’s emissions were approximately 10 percent lower than initially forecasted. He stated, "In FY24, our emissions were around 10 percent less than what we forecasted." This reduction is a positive indication of the effectiveness of the company’s ongoing decarbonization efforts.
Furthermore, Fortescue has commissioned Australia’s largest gas and liquid hydrogen plant at its Christmas Creek mine, which is now utilized to refuel a fleet of hydrogen-powered coaches and prototypes. Forrest highlighted the company’s advancements, saying, "We tested our battery electric haul truck prototype, Roadrunner, at our Green Energy Hub at Christmas Creek, and its hydrogen-powered equivalent is now undergoing similar testing after recently arriving in the Pilbara." These initiatives mark significant milestones in Fortescue's journey towards sustainable mining.
The company is also in the process of commissioning its first 100MW solar farm at North Star Junction near Iron Bridge, part of a broader strategy to develop over one gigawatt (GW) of solar infrastructure by the end of the decade. Forrest's commitment to a US$6.2 billion decarbonization plan is translating ambition into tangible action, showcasing Fortescue's determination to lead in both the mining and renewable energy sectors.
Forrest's recognition in Time magazine comes amidst a diverse group of influential figures, including actress Blake Lively, who made headlines during a legal battle with her ‘It Ends with Us’ director and co-star, US President Donald Trump, podcaster Joe Rogan, and ex-Hamas hostage Noa Argamani. Time magazine released its annual list of the 100 most influential people on April 16, 2025, highlighting individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.
As Forrest continues to push the envelope in sustainable mining and energy production, his leadership serves as a beacon for the industry, showcasing the potential for transformation and innovation. His vision not only aims to reshape Fortescue but also to inspire a broader movement towards sustainability in the mining sector and beyond.
