Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina has released the first IRMA report in the country, assessing its operations against the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining. The report is pending final evaluation of community engagement. Despite this, it has met IRMA 50 requirements. The mine’s audit lasted three years, emphasizing corporate transparency and community relations.
Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina has distinguished itself as the first operation in the nation to release an Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) report. This comprehensive audit evaluates the mine’s operations according to the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining, recognized as the most thorough benchmark for industry best practices. The mine’s overall achievement status is still pending, contingent upon a final review of free, prior, and informed consent outlined in Chapter 2.2.
During the assessment, auditors from SCS Global Services determined that further testimonies and comprehensive interviews were necessary to adequately gauge the mine’s compliance with Chapter 2.2. These evaluations will be revisited in the forthcoming IRMA surveillance audit, scheduled to occur within 12 to 18 months post-publication of the initial report. Aside from the pending evaluation, the Fenix Mine has successfully met the requirements for at least an IRMA 50 achievement level.
The audit process for the Fenix Mine commenced on February 15, 2022, with an independent third-party audit. Paul Graves, President and CEO of Arcadium Lithium stated, “We began the IRMA process with clear objectives: to help drive transparency in our industry, foster better engagement with community and Indigenous stakeholders, and gain insights to improve every aspect of our operations. The publication of the Fenix audit report is an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to these goals.”
Globally, 22 industrial-scale mines, including Fenix, are participating in the IRMA independent assessment system. Meanwhile, Anglo American’s Minas-Rio and Barro Alto mines in Brazil achieved an IRMA 75 rating in February 2024. Furthermore, US-based specialty chemicals firm Albemarle published the first IRMA report by a lithium producer in June 2023, obtaining an IRMA 50 for its operation in Salar de Atacama, Chile.
In conclusion, the Fenix Mine’s IRMA report marks an important advancement in responsible mining practices in Argentina. It reflects a commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement in the mining sector. While additional assessments are required for full accreditation, the initial findings indicate promising compliance with industry standards. The growing adoption of the IRMA framework underscores its significance in fostering responsible mining operations globally.
Original Source: www.mining-technology.com
