Written by: Lucie López
Did you know that around 200 million people depend on artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) for their livelihoods? The minerals they produce have become essential in our everyday lives, sometimes without us even realizing it. They are found in jewelry, computers, phones, cars, etc., and are also key to the energy transition. However, the reality behind most of the production of these minerals is harsh: artisanal miners who produce them often work in precarious conditions, without fair income or solutions to protect the environment, their health, and that of their families and communities.
Photo courtesy of Chloe Belleret
At the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM), we’ve been working for over 20 years to change this reality. Our goal is to integrate miners into a formal and responsible economy, supporting them to adopt socially and environmentally responsible practices. We also promote fair trade, ensuring a price that values their efforts and helps improve their living conditions. Thanks to this model, consumers and committed brands can directly support the efforts of these communities to build a more sustainable future.
We begin this new year with a call to action to transform the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector together. Supporting ARM means promoting a fairer production and trade of minerals, with people and the planet at the center of the solutions.
We offer various ways for businesses, industries using metals, international cooperation organizations, jewelers, and other key actors to join our mission of promoting sustainable and fair practices in ASM. Below are some concrete ways to support:
5 ways to support ARM
1. Become an ARM Member: Becoming a member of ARM connects you with a network of organizations and individuals committed to sustainability in mining. As a member, you not only contribute to generating a positive impact but also have the opportunity to engage with key actors in ASM countries and communities, learning about the risks and opportunities in the sector. Additionally, becoming an ARM member allows you to source Fairmined precious minerals. Our team will guide you through the process to enjoy the benefits of being part of our ARM membership.
2. Free Donations with Lilo.org You can contribute to ARM’s projects for FREE by simply installing lilo.org when you do online searches. Lilo is a search engine that generates funds every time you search online, and you can donate them to ARM. These drops become financial support for our organization, enabling you to back ARM’s actions, more responsible ASM, and sustainable development while making your usual searches.
Photo courtesy of Chloe Belleret
3. Responsible Sourcing from ASM
- Fairmined Gold and other precious metals: If you’re an industry player, consider supporting Fairmined-certified mines by sourcing their minerals or purchasing Fairmined Credits. The Fairmined seal ensures that minerals are produced under the best social and environmental practices. By paying a Fairmined premium recognizing the mines’ efforts, you can contribute to the continuous improvement of these mines and the implementation of social impact projects in surrounding communities.
- CRAFT-Compliant gold and other minerals: You can also choose to source ASM minerals that comply with the CRAFT Code, ensuring due diligence aligned with OECD standards in their supply chains. ARM can assist you in implementing sourcing schemes that benefit all involved, from miners to downstream actors.
5. Hire ARM’s Services Take advantage of ARM’s comprehensive portfolio of services, which includes consultancy, technical assistance, and training through our training center. These solutions are tailored to the needs of all actors involved in ASM, including refiners, marketers, medium or large mining companies, artisanal and small-scale miners, NGOs, public entities, etc. They are designed to improve the sustainability and efficiency of your activities while supporting responsible mining practices and contributing to ARM’s mission.
For more information, email us at gro.s1748015499enime1748015499lbisn1748015499opser1748015499@zepo1748015499leicu1748015499l1748015499