Mining Magazine August 2015 | Page 10

OPERATIONS
regional business development ; and faster access to financing because of lower perceived risk by equity markets .
• Taking action that doesn ’ t appear to be in the best interest of the business but rather the community in which they operate . This not only shows a very high level of authenticity but it reveals good will .
By assisting in things that don ’ t always make business sense , mining companies can actually build more authentic relationships with their host communities and therefore benefit themselves and shareholders in the process .
Embracing the responsibility Mining is a complex and intensive process that causes environmental and social change no matter where it occurs . It is imperative that mining companies embrace social and environmental responsibility to give back to their host communities .
The International Council on Mining and Metals ( ICMM ) is one of the primary organizations dedicated to improving sustainable development performance in the mining industry .
Members are required to implement the organization ’ s Sustainable Development Framework , which includes integrating a set of 10 principles and six supporting position statements into corporate policy , as well as integrating transparent and accountable reporting practices .
“ Our challenge is to ensure that these implications add up to a net positive contribution over the long term – to individuals , their families and communities , to the countries in which we operate and the enveloping ecosystem . In so doing , we enhance security , touching on the most basic of human and ecological needs .

“ Our challenge is to ensure that these implications add up to a net positive contribution over the long term – to individuals , their families and communities , to the countries in which we operate and the enveloping ecosystem ” – ICMM President , Anthony Hodge .

10 August 2015