Glencore Discloses Progress on Tailings Management
Glencore PLC
In 2020, the Global Tailings Review, consisting of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), unveiled the new Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM). Glencore actively contributed to the development of the GISTM as a member of ICMM.
Among the dedicated contributors to the GISTM's development was Glencore, actively engaged as a member of the ICMM.
On August 5, 2020, Glencore, along with all ICMM members, made a resolute commitment to implementing the GISTM. In adherence to the ICMM timetable, Glencore now provides an update on the conformance to GISTM for its tailing storage facilities (TSFs) categorised as having 'Very High' or 'Extreme' Consequence Classifications.
Demonstrating utmost dedication, Glencore has adopted a rigorous and technically robust approach to applying the GISTM, surpassing mere self-assessments by incorporating independent third-party assurance. This commitment has ushered in a new era of transparency in managing these vital facilities.
Proudly reflecting on the progress made over the last three years, Glencore has undertaken several commendable initiatives.
These include the establishment of the Tailings Manager Academy, engagement in a global agreement for Satellite (InSAR) monitoring, undertaking substantial engineering works at multiple TSFs, developing comprehensive action plans to address identified gaps, and creating detailed roadmaps towards full conformance.
Furthermore, independent assessments conducted by Klohn Crippen Berger (KCB), a distinguished engineering, geosciences, and environmental consulting firm renowned for its expertise in assessing the integrity and safety of TSFs, have further validated Glencore's efforts.
Additionally, third-party assurance from Acorn International, an Environment, Social, and Governance assurance consulting firm focused on the social and human rights aspects of the GISTM, has further strengthened Glencore's commitment to responsible practices.
Confident in the effectiveness of their ongoing TSF management systems and guided by independent third-party assessments, Glencore remains steadfast in identifying and appropriately managing any conformance gaps for TSFs classified with 'Very High' and 'Extreme' Consequences.
To ensure utmost transparency, Glencore has made the disclosure available on its website (www.glencore.com/sustainability/esg-a-z/Tailings). The comprehensive disclosure includes informative factsheets for 15 facilities, highlighting identified gaps concerning GISTM compliance along with time-bound measures to address them.
Furthermore, Glencore has thoughtfully updated the register for its 'Low', 'Significant', and 'High' Consequence Classification TSFs, with additional details set to be disclosed in August 2025, exemplifying the company's unwavering dedication to responsible tailings management.
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Source: Glencore
