The Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management requires Operators to prevent catastrophic failures and ensure zero tolerance for human fatalities and environmental harm. It applies to all tailings facilities, from planning through post-closure. Operators must follow best practices unless local laws conflict. Future implementation protocols will clarify performance expectations(“Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management,” n.d.).
The Standard prioritizes human rights and meaningful engagement with affected communities across the facility lifecycle. It mandates a site-specific, integrated risk management approach that includes environmental, social, and economic factors. Strong governance, with clear executive accountability and expert oversight, is required. Transparency, continuous monitoring, and emergency planning are essential for building trust and managing long-term risks(Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management | Resolution Copper Project and Land Exchange Environmental Impact Statement, n.d.).
What’s one specific action or initiative you believe is most crucial for a company to implement to truly align with the principles of this global standard?
References:
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Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management. (n.d.). Global Tailings Review. Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://globaltailingsreview.org/global-industry-standard/
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Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management | Resolution Copper Project and Land Exchange Environmental Impact Statement. (n.d.). Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://www.resolutionmineeis.us/documents/icmm-et-al-2020
