First tailings reprocessing site begins The Copper Mark assurance process

Metalkol, a facility wholly owned by Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) in the Democratic Republic of Congo that is a major tailings reprocessing operation, has signed a letter of commitment with The Copper Mark to undertake that assurance framework, which promotes responsible practices across the copper, molybdenum, nickel and zinc value chains.

The decision reflects Metalkol’s commitment to upholding responsible and sustainable practices, in line with the principles and goals stated in the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals, according to a news release from ERG.

“We welcome Metalkol as the first tailings reprocessing site to commit to the Copper Mark assurance process," says Michèle Brülhart, executive director of The Copper Mark. "Reprocessing of mine waste is an important part of ensuring responsible production both in terms of minimizing the site’s long-term impact and maximizing its efficiency.”

ERG is a leading diversified natural resources group headquartered in Luxembourg, with integrated mining, processing, energy, logistics and marketing operations. It employs more than 80,000 people globally and sells products in more than 40 countries. The group’s main shareholder, with a 40 percent stake, is the government of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

In Kazakhstan, ERG represents one-third of the metals and mining sector, operating Kazchrome, SSGPO, Kazakhstan Aluminium Smelter, Aluminium of Kazakhstan, Eurasian Energy Corporation, and others.

ERG says Metalkol has become one of the world’s largest producers of cobalt and a major producer of copper.

The Copper Mark, launched in 2020, is a voluntary, transparent and independent designation based on third-party assessments by approved assessors that will verify that Metalkol meets the requirements for responsible production practices.

“The acceptance of our application into The Copper Mark assurance process is a significant milestone for both ERG in Africa and the whole group,” says Nicolas Treand, CEO of ERG Africa. “Undergoing this assurance process reflects our commitment to adhere to the highest sustainability standards and contribute to the responsible development of the mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is essential for the future of the country and its people.”