(EnergyAsia, March 5 2012, Monday) — The World Coal Association (WCA) said Caterpillar Global Mining, a unit of world leading mining equipment manufacturer Caterpillar Inc, has joined as a corporate member from January 2012.

With Caterpillar’s addition, the WCA has raised its membership which includes major coal producers, national coal associations and other non-profit bodies with an interest in the coal industry to 41.

The WCA said Caterpillar’s membership strengthens its link within the mining equipment sector.

“We are delighted to join the WCA which provides a united forum for organisations with a stake in the future of coal and mining” said Chris Curfman, president, sales and support, Caterpillar Global Mining.

Milton Catelin, chief executive of the WCA, said:

“Caterpillar is an important new member. With two of the world’s largest mining equipment manufacturers as Corporate Members, we are now in a stronger than ever position to engage in wider mining issues. These include environmental and socio-economic benefits and the effects from coal mining and coal use.”