Raw materials and climate change: promotion of low-carbon, environmentally sustainable and resource-efficient methods in the production of raw materials

The economies of many developing and emerging countries are dependent on the export of raw materials. Raw material extraction is often associated with extensive environmental pollution, high consumption of fossil fuels and major greenhouse gas emissions. The project modelled effective strategies and standards for raw material extraction in partner countries that is sustainable and environmentally friendly. While helping partner countries mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, the project was also improving energy and resource efficiency, and introducing socio-environmentally responsible company management structures. Apart from including stakeholders from business and civil society, the project also cooperated with selected companies on model solution strategies. Other work included consulting services for the mining sector and (re-)training for local specialists. The project results formed part of the global debate on raw material extraction that is more sustainable for the climate, environment and society.