Copper Mark ’ s Executive Director , Michèle Brülhart , speaks exclusively to us about improving copper sustainability and creating sustainable value chains
Copper Mark ’ s Executive Director , Michèle Brülhart , speaks exclusively to us about improving copper sustainability and creating sustainable value chains
WRITTEN BY : DOMINIC ELLIS
Copper demand is expected to double over the next few decades , reaching about 60mn tonnes per year by 2050 . The sector ’ s projected growth is going to place increased demand — and scrutiny — on copper companies ’ sustainability , particularly in an era of net zero targets and emissions consciousness .
Copper currently finds itself in the limelight as a key metal affected by the Ukrainian conflict , given Russia is the second largest exporter of refined copper — and one that is integral to the green economy transition . As such , greater attention is being paid to the sector ’ s own sustainability credentials .
The Copper Mark — assurance framework designed to promote responsible practices and demonstrate the copper industry ’ s contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals — now has 24 participating sites , covering 11 major copper-producing companies across a range of key mining geographies , and it is looking to add another 15 sites this year .
Codelco was a recent high-profile addition . Aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 , Codelco is the world ’ s largest copper producer and is committed to ensuring that all of its sites participate in the framework by
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