What criteria will be used in the certification process?
A joint effort by NGOs, retailers, investors, insurers and technical experts working in the minerals sector to establish standards is in progress. It outlines environmental, human rights and social issues associated with mining and mined products and has a website, The Framework for Responsible Mining: A Guide to Evolving Standards Professor Glenn C. Miller of the University of Nevada, Reno has suggested that the following conditions should be considered when evaluating mines: Climate- Is there too much rainfall? Geological setting- Is mining likely to produce acid mine drainage? Appropriateness of the type of mine- open pit or underground Reliability- the company s previous performance record Regulatory setting- standards and enforcement Closure plan with bonding Mercury Plan Guidelines should include the following: Respect basic human rights. Provide safe working conditions. Respect worker s rights. Operate only with the prior consent of communities affected by a mine. Disclose all i
