The Task

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) acts as an agent for change and continual improvement on issues relating to mining and sustainable development, with a membership of over 50 organisations including some of the largest and most influential players in the industry.  We were asked to provide a comprehensive baseline analysis of the sustainable procurement policies and processes of the membership across the World, producing practical recommendations to enable members to take the sustainable procurement agenda forward.   

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    The Action

    We conducted a thorough desktop review before holding telephone interviews across five continents with the organisations involved, providing our recommendations in a detailed report presented in person to members at a meeting in London. 

    The Benefit

    • Developed the first ever substantive analysis of commitment and practice in socially and environmentally sustainable procurement/responsible sourcing in this sector
    • Produced 13 clear recommendations for ICMM and its members to use in improving and developing their approach, focusing on policy, culture, practice and communications 
    • Raised awareness of the opportunities and potential for improved risk management to be gained from a structured approach to sustainable procurement  
    • Identified a number of potential case studies for internal or external use, demonstrating how a positive approach can assist the sector in protecting and enhancing their social licence to operate worldwide and status as partner of choice in the locations in which they do business
    • Provided a strong basis for members to understand requirements for adopting the forthcoming ISO standard for sustainable procurement ISO 20400.