The UK-based International Council on Mining and Minerals (ICMM) has released new guidance on the way mining companies can help achieve the United Nations 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The SDGs were initially adopted at a special UN Sustainable Development Summit on 25 September 2015 and form a set of 17 individual targets that aim to protect the planet and ensure a sustainable future.
These goals can be used by member states to frame their development agendas for the next 15 years.
ICMM CEO Tom Butler said: “Our new guidance helps mining companies look at the contributions that they can make to achieve the sustainable development goals across their operations.
“There is great alignment between ICMM’s ten principles for sustainable mining and the SDGs.
“With our strong focus on sustainable development, ICMM believes that the mining and metals industry can make a positive contribution to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.”
At the time of launch, the UN recognised the important role being played by business to achieve the objectives.
ICMM said it has mapped how the ten principles that underpin sustainable development in the mining industry relate to the UN's goals.
ICMM chief operations officer Aidan Davy said: "At ICMM, we are working with WWF on water policy, IUCN on biodiversity, and EITI on transparency and good governance.
"We are determined that the mining and metals industry will be part of the solution in tackling the biggest issues facing society and is committed to playing its part."
