Sustainability has a pivotal role to play in mining, as demonstrated by The Copper Mark, the first and only assurance framework of the copper industry which demonstrates responsible production practices and industry contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of sustainable production and consumption. The Copper Mark is being introduced at a time of increasing scrutiny on mineral supply chains and product provenance. The Copper Mark goes beyond mere compliance, focusing on continuous improvement practices. In August, Rio Tinto’s Kennecott mine in Utah was the first mine in the world be awarded the Copper Mark. Freeport McMoRan recently announced its commitment to Copper Mark, with six mining sites signed on.
To receive the Copper Mark, a copper producer must be independently assessed against a comprehensive set of environmental, social and governance criteria on a site-by-site basis. The goal is not just to improve the environment, but to also strengthen and enrich the lives of those touched by copper mining. Communities are at the heart of the framework. These actions will lead to positive societal change and stronger communities.