Dialogue and trust

Eramet’s corporate purpose statement sets out an ambitious objective for the Group: “to become a benchmark when it comes to the responsible processing of the Earth’s mineral resources for the benefit of all.” In practical terms, this aim of working for “the benefit of all” means respecting basic human rights and building a relationship of trust and transparency with the communities where we work.

For us, this relationship is essential: our operations are only possible if they meet with community acceptance. This is what we call the “social license to operate,” and it is something we work to maintain each and every day, before, during, and after our various activities.

The 3 pillars of community relations

Managing risks and limiting societal impacts

Risk prevention and managing the impacts inherent in mining and metallurgical activities are key to our relationships with local communities. In accordance with international standards, Eramet identifies, assesses, and implements action plans to limit the societal impacts of its operations. These risks include those relating to the health, safety, and security of communities, as well as to cultural heritage and living standards.

Through consultations, local communities are included in defining and implementing risk control measures adapted to the sites concerned.

This is also the case when land acquisitions are necessary. Such acquisitions are always carried out within the framework of public commissions involving the authorities, representatives of the communities concerned and the company. Where necessary, relocation plans are sometimes drawn up. These plans define the most suitable compensatory measure and specify how the individuals concerned will be supported over time to ensure that their quality of life is maintained or improved.

Engaging with communities

Whether it be on-site activities, environmental risks, or societal impacts, Eramet and its subsidiaries ensure that local communities are kept informed and are consulted on an ongoing basis. Conducted in accordance with local legal requirements and in line with the strictest international standards, this work takes various forms, including organizing public information meetings or open days, producing written publications, holding public consultations, and setting up joint committees.

In the case of sites where new operations are being launched, information and consultation processes are essential in order to explain the nature of the projects and involve local communities in identifying measures to mitigate any impacts that may affect them.

Local complaint resolution procedures

All Group sites have set up a system for recording and responding to complaints from neighboring communities. Today, all our mining sites have complaint resolution procedures that comply with the requirements of the IFC (International Finance Corporation, a World Bank Group institution).

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