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The CRAFT Code, an open and collaborative framework that drives progressive improvement in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) practices, has launched version 2.1 with full alignment to the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals in Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. This new version strengthens the global infrastructure for creating responsible mineral sourcing mechanisms.
Version 2.1, which was evaluated by the independent auditor Responsible Trade, is now permanently recognized by the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) as a framework standard for upstream responsible sourcing mechanisms. This milestone represents a significant advancement in creating supply chains that monitor and mitigate social and environmental risks from the mine to the refining and smelting stages.
Why Full Alignment with OECD Matters
Full alignment with the OECD Guidelines is a crucial step in establishing credibility and trust in the ASM sector. These guidelines are the global standard for responsible sourcing and due diligence in conflict zones, widely adopted by the industry. This new version of the CRAFT Code ensures that ASM operators can meet international standards, contributing to more transparent, ethical, and responsible supply chains.
“CRAFT 2.1 adds another brick to the open-source infrastructure, that can serve as a foundation for miners, market actors, NGOs, investors and donors to build their own responsible sourcing programs” said Dayron Monroy, Head of Standards and Assurance at the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM).
Whether it is a CRAFT Scheme that aims to support the advancement of ASM good practices, or a CRAFT UA Scheme focused on due diligence, using a widely consulted and recognized standard helps everyone speak the same language, build synergies and avoid “reinventing the wheel” said Marcin Piersiak, Executive Director Europe at the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM).
What’s New in CRAFT Code 2.1
CRAFT 2.1 introduces critical enhancements, such as expanding its scope to include aggregators, traders, and mineral processors. Under the new Upstream Assurance (CRAFT-UA) scheme, these intermediaries, referred to as “buyers,” now have clearly defined due diligence responsibilities, ensuring compliance with OECD guidelines not only in direct export scenarios but also in cases where ASM producers work through midstream actors before reaching refiners.
This flexibility broadens the applicability of the CRAFT Code across various supply chain structures, making it a more useful and practical tool for all stakeholders involved.
A Global Collaboration Effort
The successful alignment of CRAFT Code 2.1 would not have been possible without the collective efforts of several international organizations committed to responsible mining. The participation of RESOLVE, which played a key role in the interim review, along with the support of committed programmes and NGOs such as planetGold, The Impact Facility, and PACT, has been essential in ensuring that this framework meets the highest international standards.
“We are proud to have collaborated with ARM and other key players in advancing CRAFT Code as a crucial tool for responsible mining,” said Stephen D’Esposito, CEO of RESOLVE. “Alignment with the OECD Guidelines ensures that responsibly sourced minerals find their place in global markets, contributing to better social and environmental outcomes.”
“As the product of a shared vision for responsible ASM, CRAFT showcases the strength of collaboration. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to contribute and to bring this vision to life” said Felix Hruschka, Board Member at the Alliance for Responsible Mining.
Additionally, this initiative has actively involved the European Partnership for Responsible Minerals (EPRM), the Artisanal Gold Council, and the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI), solidifying the CRAFT Code as a key tool in transforming global supply chains towards a more responsible and sustainable approach.
Looking Forward
The CRAFT Code continues to evolve, empowering artisanal and small-scale miners to improve their practices and communicate those improvements to both local and global stakeholders. This evolution not only legitimizes the ASM sector but also facilitates its integration into responsible global supply chains.
Download the CRAFT Code 2.1, and read the summary of amendments introduced in CRAFT Code version 2.1
Find out more visiting: www.craftmines.org.