Policy Engagement
Positive and transparent policy engagement promotes higher standards of performance and policies that enable mining and metals to contribute to a sustainable future.
Mining is essential to modern life, providing the materials needed for renewable energy, infrastructure, and essential everyday products. To maximise the contribution of mining and metals to society and minimise potential negative impacts, high standards of performance are critical. Through strategic relationships, intelligence-sharing, and streamlined advocacy, we engage proactively and transparently with policymakers to promote rigorous standards and guidance, drive the adoption of responsible practices, and present progressive industry positions on critical issues.
Issue at a glance
- The global commitment to decarbonisation, coupled with ongoing geopolitical challenges, has heightened concerns about the security and stability of material supply. If urgency to produce overrides other priorities, sustainability practices and standards risk being compromised and the established benefits of minerals and metals projects may be undermined.
- Meeting the growing demand for critical materials necessitates developing new mines, but challenges in licensing new mines must be resolved to ensure this is done responsibly – and at the speed required to meet the needs of the future.
- High standards for responsible mining are fundamental to a safe, just, and sustainable transition, with permitting and licensing processes upholding rigorous impact assessments and robust community and stakeholder engagement to ensure long-term success. However, in many cases, these processes can be streamlined, realising the benefits of mining projects sooner, whilst remaining committed to responsible practices.
- A just transition cannot be realised if the materials driving the energy transition are not produced in alignment with high standards for responsible mining. Moreover, failing to address the needs of less-developed producing countries risks widening global inequalities, undermining the both the fairness of the transition, and its speed.
- Mining projects are often large-scale, long-term ventures that may require significant upfront investment. Stable tax and royalty systems are critical in fostering social and economic development, strengthening institutions, and creating favourable conditions for successful investments.
