July 12, 2023
The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) has been vital in promoting and supporting the Canadian mining industry for nearly a century. Current MAC members comprise 46 member companies, many of which operate globally. These companies represent a significant portion of Canadian mineral production.
MAC member companies are committed to upholding the principles of sustainable mining through their participation in the internationally recognized Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) initiative. TSM provides a structure to manage environmental and social risks in operating regions. Companies are encouraged to formulate, advance, and continuously improve their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies using TSM protocols composed of best practices.
Using TSM guiding principles, MAC members must report regularly on their performance. These reports are made public and address nine protocols. Each protocol has a set of key indicators to measure performance. Yearly grades for each TSM protocol are publicly available, and reporting is externally audited every three years. This promotes transparency, improvement, and accountability. Since their inception by the MAC, TSM has been adopted by mining associations in 11 countries outside of Canada.
On June 22nd, 2023, MAC unveiled the new Equitable, Diverse, and Inclusive (EDI) Workplaces Protocol. This protocol aims to promote EDI initiatives at corporate and facility levels, reinforcing the significance of creating innovative and inclusive work environments. MAC members' unanimous adoption of this protocol underlines their commitment to fostering equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplaces.
The EDI Workplace Protocol assesses three key criteria:
MAC member facilities will internally track against these criteria for two years. Public Reporting on the New EDI protocol begins in 2026.
NetBenefit Software has tracked and monitored EDI metrics for industrial projects for almost 20 years. Using the Benefits Tracking Module, facility operators can effortlessly capture key data from contractors, sub-contractors, and suppliers. This enables organizations, such as MAC members, to track EDI metrics throughout the value chain of a project. This capability aligns perfectly with the new EDI protocol, including integrating these principles into the procurement process and contractor relationships.
The Benefits Tracking Module streamlines the collection of EDI data in areas of procurement and employment. With the built-in reporting suite, organizations can (quickly and efficiently) identify and address any shortcomings related to their EDI goals. The software simplifies the collection and reporting while enabling the advancement of inclusive practices within the mining industry.
With the recent introduction of the EDI Workplaces Protocol, MAC members are proactively fostering fair and inclusive work environments. With the support of NetBenefit Software's Benefits Tracking Module, MAC members can seamlessly collect, track, and report EDI data throughout their operations and value chains. Through these collective efforts, the Canadian mining industry will continue to advance as a global leader in sustainable and inclusive practices.
Chris Williams is an industry expert with a wealth of experience in regulatory, geo-science, and community environments. Chris is always moving fast as a Solution Consultant at NetBenefit software and as an avid runner and biker.
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