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ASM

Responsible mineral credits – investing in responsible artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM)

Calvin Laing
Calvin Laing Head of Data and Due Diligence

Responsible artisanal mining can provide a dignified livelihood and serve as a driver for local development, a pillar of responsible sourcing. However, large parts of the ASM sector are not being reached through existing certification schemes and barriers still exist to direct, responsible sourcing.

Responsible Mineral Credits (RMCs) enable companies to support responsible ASM production without direct sourcing. RMCs:

  • Provide investment for progressive improvement of ASM, based on a downstream company’s mineral use.
  • Bring responsible ASM supply to the market: minerals are not integrated into a specific supply chain, but brought to the market for anyone.
  • Do not interfere with existing physical supply chains – therefore, no additional costs are created and the funds are spent to directly benefit responsible ASM.
  • Allow downstream companies to account for their (non-traceable/non-certified) mineral use and to address salient risks in the supply chain.

Credits are generated according to production volumes at ASM sites that meet minimum ESG standards. These standards align with OECD due diligence guidance and the CRAFT code (modules 1-3).

Credits support progressive mine improvement – mines decide how to spend their credit premium in four areas: good governance; safe and dignified working conditions; environmental protection; and inclusive economic development.

Get in touch with us for more information about current availability of mineral credits and how to make mineral credits part of your sustainability strategy.

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