UK's Critical Minerals Association releases blueprint for responsible sourcing
The new Blueprint for Responsible Sourcing of Critical Minerals intends to help navigate the complex landscape of environmental, social and governance (ESG) in mining.
The paper outlines challenges and opportunities for the UK to be a world leader in mining and sourcing critical minerals responsibly.
The Association notes, 'Critical minerals are the building blocks of renewable energy technologies and essential in enabling the UK’s Green Industrial Revolution. We need these materials for technologies such as wind turbines, solar panels, electric vehicles and battery storage.
'It is critical that the materials we use in these green technologies are responsibly sourced, adhering to world-class ESG standards, managing environmental impacts, respecting human rights, minimising greenhouse gas emissions and supporting local communities.'
The document puts forward a number of recommendations for the UK Government to consider along three key themes:
- Leadership on ESG in the critical minerals sector - with a statement of commitment from the UK Government and a reponsible value chain ESG rating system.
- Enabling responsible investment in UK critical minerals - through access to capital, setting expectations, responsible sourcing and innovation; by supporting a talent pipeline; and streamlining planning and permitting.
- Driving collaboration - through a central co-ordinating body, a multi-stakeholder forum and ensuring international collaboration.
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