NEWS

12.11.07
New publication explores the importance of product policy and eco-efficiency

Metals are highly durable chemical elements that can, in theory, be recycled infinitely with no inherent degradation in properties. This means that they are highly eco-efficient over their life cycle even though their initial production may be energy intensive. ICMM’s latest publication Materials Stewardship: Eco-efficiency and Product Policy explores the relationship between these three concepts to help maximize the benefits of the attributes of metals.

The rationale is that a clear understanding of the often complex interrelationship between these three concepts enables the mining and metals industry and society in general to identify specific opportunities for optimizing efficiency in the life cycle of metals and minerals.

The end goal is not only optimized production, but also an increased understanding of the attributes of minerals and metals by those managing downstream processes and products, and by policy makers who influence their patterns of use in society.

Materials stewardship is the concept ICMM has developed to embody the range of activities required to ensure the optimal and appropriate use of minerals and metals in society. It is about enhancing the durability and recyclability of minerals and metals, increasing the efficiency of their production and use, and minimizing associated risks.

Eco-efficiency is an emerging tool that is considered vital for implementing materials stewardship. It concerns ‘doing more with less’ and harnesses the business imperative of creating value with the societal goal of protecting the environment. The third element of focus in this publication - product policy, is the regulatory device that many governments apply in relation to improving resource efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of goods and services.

In practice, many of the process and product systems that the mining and metals industry is seeking to optimize through the application of materials stewardship and eco-efficiency are the same systems that governments are seeking to influence.

ICMM program director John Atherton says “All industry sectors are under increasing pressure to use resources effectively in order to strengthen environmental practices and economic performance. ICMM’s new publication will help them to better assess the issues involved”.

For more information on ICMM materials stewardship activities please contact John Atherton


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Materials Stewardship: Eco-efficiency and Product Policy
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SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Principle 08:

Facilitate and encourage responsible product design, use, re-use, recycling and disposal of our products

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