Concerned about the growing water scarcity , members of International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), which constitutes about a third of the global mining activity, have unveiled new commitments to manage the escalating problem of water scarcity.
Through the water stewardship position statement, the member companies have said they will take action to support the responsible use of water. More than 1.2 billion people living in areas of water scarcity place natural habitats under increasing threat.
The position statement, which is binding, requires ICMM members to apply strong and transparent water governance (including robust public reporting); manage water at operations effectively; and collaborate to achieve responsible and sustainable water use.
Tom Butler, ICMM CEO, comments: “Our members have shown real leadership in adopting a firm commitment to water stewardship. Society will not be able to meet the sustainable development challenges of the 21st century without improving the management and use of global water resources. As an industry we have a leading role to play in contributing practical solutions to water resource challenges.
“Water is vital for local communities, the natural environment and for businesses, so leadership on water stewardship is required from all parts of society. We are pleased to be playing our part and we are happy to share our work with other sectors and the wider mining industry too.”
Stuart Orr, WWF International’s practice lead for water, says: “ICMM’s continued push and progress on water stewardship is commendable. This isn’t just raising the bar and expectations within the mining sector but across all business sectors.”
