Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina is the first to release an IRMA report, evaluating its practices against the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining. While awaiting a final assessment on free, prior, and informed consent, the mine meets the IRMA 50 level requirements. This milestone supports greater transparency and community engagement in the mining sector, aligning with global efforts for responsible mining practices.
Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina has distinguished itself as the first mining operation in the nation to publish an Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) report. This report evaluates the mine’s performance based on the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining, which is recognized as the most thorough benchmark for best practices in the industry. Currently, the overall achievement level of the Fenix Mine is awaiting the final evaluation of free, prior, and informed consent, outlined in Chapter 2.2 of the standard.
During the assessment period, SCS Global Services auditors identified the need for additional testimonies and comprehensive interviews to accurately assess the mine’s performance regarding this specific chapter. These elements will be examined in the forthcoming IRMA surveillance audit, which is anticipated to take place within 12 to 18 months following the publication of the initial report. Notably, aside from the pending final evaluation of Chapter 2.2, the Fenix Mine’s audit results indicate compliance with the criteria for at least an IRMA 50 level.
The audit process for the Fenix Mine spanned three years, commencing on February 15, 2022, with the declaration of an independent third-party audit. Arcadium Lithium’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Graves, emphasized the company’s commitment, stating that they initiated the IRMA process with specific goals, including enhancing transparency in the industry, improving community and Indigenous stakeholder engagement, and gaining insights to refine their operations. The release of the Fenix audit report marks a significant milestone in relation to these commitments.
Globally, the Fenix Mine joins a select group of 22 industrial-scale mines participating in the IRMA independent assessment system. Notable examples include Anglo American’s Minas-Rio and Barro Alto mines in Brazil, which achieved IRMA 75 in February 2024. Additionally, the US-based specialty chemicals firm Albemarle became the first lithium producer to publish an IRMA report in June 2023, attaining IRMA 50 for its operation in the Salar de Atacama, Chile. Furthermore, Brazilian steelmaker Gerdau has pledged to undergo IRMA assessments for its iron ore mines in Minas Gerais, while Chilean mining company SQM’s operation in Salar de Atacama reached IRMA 75 in September 2023.
Aimee Boulanger, the Executive Director of IRMA, remarked, “Through detailed IRMA audit reports, mining companies, communities, and companies that purchase mined materials can gain the information they need to decide what is going well – and where improvements can be made – at specific mines.” This emphasizes the value of independent evaluations against rigorous standards governed by affected communities, aiming to reduce negative impacts, enhance benefit-sharing, and mitigate conflicts.
The IRMA Standard is gaining recognition and adoption worldwide, facilitating constructive dialogue between mining companies and affected communities. The findings from these audits play a vital role in the ongoing improvement of the IRMA process, contributing to a more responsible mining industry.
The Fenix Mine’s release of its IRMA report represents a critical advancement in responsible mining practices within Argentina. With a focus on transparency and community engagement, Arcadium Lithium aims to set a precedent for other mining operations. The ongoing commitment to continuous improvement through rigorous assessments underscores the importance of collaboration between mining entities and local stakeholders in achieving responsible resource management.
Original Source: www.mining-technology.com
