Role of Biodiversity Frameworks for Aluminium and Bauxite Sector

Hugo Rainey, Technical Director of Mining explores the importance of biodiversity frameworks for the aluminium supply chain. 

The Biodiversity Consultancy’s Technical Director – Mining, Hugo Rainey, recently authored an insightful article for the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI), emphasising the critical role of biodiversity frameworks within the aluminium and mining industries underscoring their importance for sustainability and responsible supply chain management.  

Due to the acceleration in the renewable energy transition across the globe, demand for aluminium has been growing rapidly, which is contributing to growth in bauxite mining. This could potentially put biodiversity across the sector’s value chain at risk, at a time when global biodiversity is in decline. 

Drawing on his site-based experience and his time as an ASI Standards Committee member (2018-2023), Hugo emphasised how careful identification of suitable biodiversity frameworks can efficiently guide businesses in managing biodiversity impacts. Global good practice found in biodiversity frameworks can help business meet regulatory requirements and lender needs, alongside enhancing a company’s social licence to operate. 

Providing a comprehensive overview of the frameworks shaping the corporate environmental agenda, particularly since adopting the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) in 2022, the article highlighted the importance of key initiatives over the last 12 months. The article drew attention to The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) which adopted additional sector guidance for the metals and mining sector and the International Council on Mining & Metals’ (ICMM) Nature: Position Statement. Both of these support the mining sector in addressing biodiversity risk.  

In particular, the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative’s Performance Standard was identified as an opportunity for companies in the aluminium industry to identify key steps for addressing biodiversity impacts and contributing to nature recovery.  

The articles highlighted the value for companies to align with standards like the International Finance Corporation’s Performance Standard 6 (IFC PS6), and TNFD, which can enhance biodiversity outcomes in mining and aluminium supply chains. The significance of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) for European markets was stressed. Hugo described how businesses can apply these frameworks as tools for good practice and pathways to operational excellence. 

The Biodiversity Consultancy, with its mission to promote sustainable practices that balance development with biodiversity conservation can be a trusted partner in this journey. 

Read the full article here and contact us to learn more about how our solutions can align with your site and corporate strategy.

Categories: Mining & Aggregates, Infrastructure & the Built Environment, Insight, Company news