More than 20 percent of the world's Copper production now comes from sustainably mined mines, Copper Mark said Tuesday.
The Copper industry created Copper Mark in 2020, a voluntary framework to promote responsible production practices and demonstrate commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
This figure is based on the addition of five new mines to the framework, including Antofagasta's Antucoya mine in Chile and Southern Peaks Mining's Compania Minera Condestable mine in Peru.
Other new members include Capstone Copper's Mantos Blancos and Mantoverde mines and Aurubis' Olen NV mine, bringing the total number of participating mines to 42, Copper Mark said.
"Copper is critical to a low-carbon future, so it is our responsibility to ensure that this important natural resource is supplied in the most sustainable way possible," Capstone Copper CEO John MacKenzie said in a press release.
Global miners are increasingly looking to prove their sustainability credentials as buyers and investors weigh the environmental impact of their products.
To be certified, each mine must meet 32 sustainability criteria covering issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, health and safety, tailings management, biodiversity, business integrity, gender equality and human rights.
The assessments are conducted every three years.
"The new commitment is indicative of a more general trend we are seeing from Copper producers and customers who increasingly recognize the importance of developing more responsible production practices," Copper Mark Executive Director Michele Brulhart said in a statement.
"We expect this trend to continue to grow as part of a shift towards creating a green economy."
