World Heritage Sites and Protected Areas

Some parts of the planet are simply irreplaceable.

World Heritage Sites protect natural and cultural features of such exceptional value that no activity—however economically important—should compromise them. Other sites are protected under national or regional law, offering varying levels of safeguarding for biodiversity, ecosystems and cultural heritage.

Mining is a vital contributor to global development, supplying essential minerals and metals for clean energy, infrastructure, and technology. Yet mining also changes landscapes—bringing infrastructure, people, and pressure to areas that may be ecologically sensitive or remote.

This is why ICMM believes that mining is not compatible with the protection of World Heritage Sites. The potential environmental and cultural losses far outweigh the possible economic benefits. We also believe that all protected areas must be treated with care to avoid the irreversible loss of the values that led to their designation.

ICMM members commit to no-go in World Heritage Sites

ICMM members have made a clear, public commitment: no exploration or mining in World Heritage Sites. This position reflects a shared understanding that some places are too valuable to disturb.

Beyond this, our members commit to:

Respect all protected areas—regardless of legal classification or location.
Avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity in and around these areas using the mitigation hierarchy.
Design and operate mines adjacent to protected areas in ways that uphold the ecological and cultural values for which the area was designated.

These commitments extend to all new operations, as well as any major changes to existing ones. The goal is to ensure that mining activities do not compromise the long-term integrity of protected areas.

Why government action is essential

Voluntary commitments can only go so far. When only responsible companies abstain from operating in sensitive areas, less accountable actors may step in—placing ecosystems and communities at renewed risk.

Governments play a critical role in this space. To be effective, conservation policy must be underpinned by clear, enforceable legislation that defines what activities are permitted—and prohibited—in protected areas. This creates a level playing field, reducing the risk that no-go zones become open to exploitation by companies with weaker environmental standards.

ICMM continues to work with governments and international institutions, including through active engagement with the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, to promote stronger, more consistent regulation. We support mainstreaming biodiversity into national planning processes and improving collaboration between public authorities and industry.

Protecting what matters most

Mining and metals will remain essential to the world’s future. But there are places where the cost of extraction is simply too high.

By committing to no-go zones, respecting protected areas, and advocating for stronger global governance, ICMM and its members aim to lead by example—helping to secure the most important ecological and cultural sites on Earth for generations to come.