Initiatives for Responsible Mineral Production and Sourcing
GRI 2-24 / 2-25 / G4-MM8
We are aware of the importance of ensuring transparency throughout the entire supply chain with respect to the mineral sourcing, which has a long and complex supply chain from upstream to downstream, and we undertake responsible mineral sourcing initiatives in line with mechanisms advanced by the international Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) to ensure supply chain transparency (see figure below). These mechanisms aim to ensure transparency in the supply chain in a more efficient manner by starting with smelters and refineries, which are relatively few in number.
From the smelter to the upstream mining, third-party audits in accordance with international standards are regularly conducted to assess our system for responsible mineral sourcing, including risk assessments of our suppliers. Because audit standards differ depending on the mineral, we are taking steps to meet the respective standards by conducting due diligence, establishing internal systems and regulations, and providing internal training. The table below shows the status of third-party audits at our smelters and refineries.
For finished product manufacturers located downstream from smelters, a standardized survey is conducted to trace and identify the smelters that processed the minerals used in final products. In response to these surveys distributed by customers as part of their efforts to trace their supply chains, we have established an internal approval process and are working to ensure consistent and unified responses across our Group. In FY2024 we responded to 378 surveys.
■ Responsible Mineral Sourcing Initiatives Promoted by the RMI
■ Status of Third-Party Audits at Our Smelters
| Subject minerals | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | Silver | Cobalt | Nickel | Copper | |
| Audit standards (issuing organization) | RGG（LBMA） | RSG（LBMA） | All Mineral Standard （RMI） |
All Mineral Standard （RMI） |
All Mineral Standard （RMI） |
| Certification body | LBMA | LBMA | RMI | RMI | RMI |
| Audit start date | FY2012 | FY2018 | FY2020 | FY2022 | FY2023 |
Please refer to the policies and reports at the bottom of the linked page for details on the certification results
https://www.smm.co.jp/en/sustainability/management/
procurement/
There are no instances of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) within or adjacent to SMM business sites
