BGR Bundesanstalt für Geowissenschaften und Rohstoffe

Mining and Sustainability

Rehabilitation of a former tin mining area in IndonesiaRehabilitation of a former tin mining area in Indonesia Source: BGR

As one of the world’s largest mineral consumers, Germany imports mineral resources from more than 160 countries. Responsible management of mineral resources is based on sound and efficient mining practice in producer countries that contributes to sustainable development. Furthermore, it needs due diligence and responsible practice of all actors of the associated supply chains. The BGR conducts research and acts as an advisor to the government, industry and broader society as well as partners in development cooperation on the following issues:


Good Mining Practice / Responsible Mining

  • Mine inspections, regulations and guidelines for mining authorities (e.g. in Myanmar und Laos)
  • Formalisation of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), mineral certification (e.g. in the DR Congo, Great Lakes Region (ICGLR))
  • Environmental issues in mining, mine closure and rehabilitation (Indonesia, Andean Region)
  • Efficiency in mining and processing, economic evaluation of mining waste (e.g. Chile)
  • Evaluation of the resource potential (Mongolia, Mozambique)
  • Carbon footprint of mining

Responsible Mineral Supply Chains

We work in international fora on the development and implementation of sustainability standards and international guidelines in the mineral sector, such as the OECD multi-stakeholder working group on due diligence in mineral supply chains from conflict-affected and high risk areas. A prominent international forum of governments and their mining-related ministries is the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF) which fosters sustainable development and capacity building worldwide. The BGR acts as the forum’s national focal point for Germany and additionally supports the IGF through its development cooperation.

Studies and publications (selection):

Presentations (selection):

Contact

    
Dr. Gudrun Franken
Phone: +49-(0)511-643-2370
Fax: +49-(0)511-643-3661

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