September 9 to 12, 2024, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil – EXPOSIBRAM was hosted, it is one of the most important mining events in Latin America. Organized by IBRAM (the Brazilian Mining Association), this international expo and congress attracted over 60,000 participants, with 2,000 congress registrations and more than 450 panels and simultaneous sessions dedicated to exploring trends, debating global scenarios, and fostering business opportunities in the mining sector.
The Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) took center stage in the panel titled “Certification Models for Small and Medium-Scale Mining,” held on Thursday, September 12, at 8:00 a.m. This panel brought together top-level experts to discuss voluntary sustainable standards that comply with international regulations and promote ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria.
During its presentation, ARM showcased the impact of the CRAFT Code and the Fairmined Standard, both developed through a rigorous, inclusive, and transparent public consultation process. These standards, tailored for the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector, integrate the OECD Due Diligence Guidance and serve as key tools for promoting responsible practices in projects worldwide.
“It is important to facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues to work together towards responsible ASM,” emphasized Lorena Botero, project coordinator from ARM, highlighting the value of collaboration to strengthen the sector in diverse contexts such as Latin America and Africa.
The event also provided an opportunity to showcase ARM’s work in Brazil, particularly its partnership with the OCB System. The participation in EXPOSIBRAM aimed not only to share experiences but also to forge strategic alliances with key stakeholders in Brazil, a country with a vibrant mining ecosystem and unique challenges.
ARM concluded its presentation by underscoring the importance of empowering local communities to implement and replicate the best ESG practices in the ASM sector, while respecting each country’s unique dynamics, legislation, culture, and language.
EXPOSIBRAM 2024 reaffirmed its position as a unique platform for knowledge exchange, business development, and advancing initiatives that transform mining into a more sustainable and responsible industry. With over 400 suppliers, the event showcased its significance as a venue for discussing the future of the sector.
ARM remains committed to driving positive change in ASM, demonstrating that responsible mining is not only possible but essential for global sustainable development.