Consultation Period: October 8, 2024 - December 8, 2024

The Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) is excited to announce the launch of a 60-day public consultation on the draft revision of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Standard. This is your chance to shape the future of responsible sourcing by providing valuable input on the updated standard that addresses key industry challenges.

Why this consultation matters?

As global regulations evolve, including the EU Battery Regulation, the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EUCSDDD), the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, and new EU Forced Labor laws, this consultation offers a pivotal opportunity. It enables stakeholders to ensure that their concerns are addressed, and their priorities are reflected in the revised ESG Standard.

How to Participate?

Interested parties are invited to visit the RMI’s Public Consultation page, where they can access the draft documents and submit feedback. Don't miss the opportunity to contribute to shaping standards that will influence supply chain due diligence across industries.

Overview of the ESG Standard Revision

Following the successful launch of the RMI’s Risk Readiness Assessment (RRA) in fall 2023, the RMI’s Multi-Stakeholder Standards Advisory Committee and staff are revising the ESG Standard to enhance companies' readiness for supply chain due diligence requirements and new regulations.

Key Features of the Revised Standard:

1. ESG Facility-Level Performance Standard

a. Revised standard for assessing ESG risk management at facility operations, applicable to smelters, refiners, metal processors, recyclers, and downstream facilities.
b. Available as a standalone assessment or in combination with the Responsible Minerals Assurance Program (RMAP) or Downstream Assessment Program (DAP).

- Note: Not applicable to mining operations.

2. ESG Supply Chain Due Diligence Module

a. New module addressing ESG risk management in sourcing primary and secondary materials.
b. Intended as an add-on to any RMAP Annex II-based standard (e.g., Tin and Tantalum, All Minerals).
c. Assesses risks from tier 1 suppliers down to the mine level.

3. Supplementary Chain of Custody Tool

a. Tool designed to validate material claims and chain-of-custody from primary or secondary material pinch points, supporting compliance with the EU Battery Regulation and other reporting requirements.
b. This tool is scheduled for consultation in 2025.

The RMI has called for all stakeholders to engage in this essential consultation, ensuring that the revised ESG Standard meets the evolving needs of the industry and complies with new regulatory frameworks. Your insights are invaluable in building a future where responsible sourcing and sustainability are at the forefront.