The Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) join to Foster Responsible Artisanal Mining in Bolivia, Colombia and Peru.
The Latest Press Release From ARM
August 30, 2013: In order to improve the social, economic and environmental performance of Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM), the Alliance for Responsible Mining and the Inter-American Development Bank through the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) have kicked off the project entitled: “Strengthening incentives for formalization and improved environmental and social performance in Artisanal and Small-scale Mining “.
The project will be running for four years and will be based on the FAIRMINED Gold certification system – one of the world’s first independent ethical certification schemes for gold and precious metals extracted by artisanal and small-scale miners. As the main market incentive, the FAIRMINED Gold certification will be guiding the formalization processes of Artisanal and Small-scale Mining Organizations in Bolivia, Colombia and Peru. The FAIRMINED Gold certification system considers the improvement of environmental, social and governance practices as key measures needed to achieve sustainable development of mining communities, while at the same time contributing to social welfare and environmental protection.
Other organizations, foundations and institutions such as Fondo Acción, Fundación Ayuda and the JCK Industry Fund have also joined the effort.
“This project is a great opportunity to implement formalization models under a strategy that combines the adoption of best practices, a multi-sector approach, and ethical market access as important elements for a transformation of the sector in the region. We feel a strong commitment to the IDB and to all organizations who believe in responsible Artisanal and Small-scale Mining, especially to the miners who want to do things right and be recognized as legitimate stakeholders in the mining sector in their countries.” said Lina Villa-Cordoba, Executive Director of the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM).
As part of its objectives, the project aims to strengthen 10 miners organizations in Bolivia, Colombia and Peru guiding them towards the achievement of FAIRMINED Gold certification, charting an exemplary path towards formalization. In addition, a Training of Trainers Center will be developed to conduct capacity-building processes through thematic modules such as formalization processes, systems of production, environmental management, gender, and health and safety.
Once qualified, trainers are expected to support miners organizations in compliance with the FAIRMINED Standard requirements. Guided by the local support organizations, the mining organizations are expected to conduct an organizational assessment and a gap analysis based on the FAIRMINED standard. This will enable adequate improvement plans that meet the real and prioritized needs of each mining organization.
In addition, the project will seek to facilitate access to formal markets through the development of a marketing platform for FAIRMINED Gold. Finally, “Gold Dialogues” events will be organized to encourage the exchange of best practices regarding formalization processes in ASM while at the same time creating synergies among the ASM sector. Through these participatory spaces, the project seeks to promote good governance by building bridges between ASM, government agencies, industry, large-scale mining, and civil society.
ARM has invited various organizations and institutions in the sector to be part of an advisory committee in each country that will contribute with technical expertise and provide recommendations on local adaptation strategies and activities. Their participation is considered crucial for providing true benefits and achieving greater impact in each of the three countries.
For more information, interviews or photos please contact:
Siri Teilmann-Ibsen, Communications Coordinator.
