Eurasian Resources Group’s (ERG) Metalkol operation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially embarked on the Copper Mark assurance process, following the signing of a letter of commitment on September 12.
The Copper Mark, established in 2020, is an assurance framework designed to promote responsible sourcing and production within the copper, nickel, molybdenum, and zinc value chains. The assurance process is voluntary, transparent, and independent, involving evaluations by approved third-party assessors to verify Metalkol’s compliance with rigorous standards for responsible production practices.
By participating in this process, Metalkol aims to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable and responsible operations, aligning with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals.
“Metalkol is the first tailings reprocessing site to commit to the Copper Mark assurance process,” stated Copper Mark Executive Director Michèle Brülhart on October 15. “Reprocessing mine waste is essential for minimizing long-term site impacts and maximizing production efficiency.”
ERG Africa CEO Nicolas Treand highlighted the acceptance of Metalkol into the Copper Mark program as a significant achievement for ERG in Africa and the broader ERG group. “This process reflects our commitment to the highest sustainability standards and supports the responsible development of the DRC’s mining sector, which is critical to the country’s future.”
Achieving Copper Mark certification aligns with ERG Africa’s comprehensive sustainability initiatives, as outlined in its Clean Cobalt and Copper Framework. Initially launched in 2018 as the Clean Cobalt Framework and expanded to include copper in 2021, the initiative focuses on promoting responsible production, ensuring supply chain assurance, and improving living conditions for local communities.
The framework undergoes annual independent verification by PwC and adheres to OECD due diligence standards. It also commits Metalkol to the Responsible Mineral Initiative’s certification process, for which it is already certified.
The Copper Mark addresses a broad spectrum of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues. Once certified, copper producers automatically comply with the London Metal Exchange’s responsible sourcing standards, which encompass environmental management, sourcing management, and occupational health and safety systems.
