Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine Releases First IRMA Report in Argentina

Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina has published the first IRMA report in the country, assessing its responsible mining practices. Although results for Chapter 2.2 are pending, the mine has already achieved IRMA 50 levels. The process has involved extensive audits over three years, aiming to foster transparency and community engagement, as stated by CEO Paul Graves. Global participation in IRMA assessments is increasing amongst various mining companies.

Arcadium Lithium’s Fenix Mine in Argentina has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first mining operation in the country to publish an Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) report. This report assesses the mine’s performance against the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining, which is regarded as the most comprehensive benchmark for best practices within the mining sector.

The current overall achievement level for the Fenix Mine is pending, as it awaits a final assessment of free, prior, and informed consent in Chapter 2.2. During the assessment, auditors from SCS Global Services identified the need for additional testimonies and comprehensive interviews to fully evaluate the mine’s performance in this area, which will be reviewed in the next IRMA surveillance audit scheduled within 12 to 18 months.

Despite the pending evaluation of Chapter 2.2, preliminary results indicate that the Fenix Mine meets the criteria for at least an IRMA 50 level. This audit commenced on February 15, 2022, marking the start of an independent third-party review process conducted over three years. The outcomes of this audit highlight Fenix Mine’s commitment to responsible mining practices.

Paul Graves, President and CEO of Arcadium Lithium, stated, “We began the IRMA process with clear objectives: to help drive transparency in our industry, foster better engagement with community and Indigenous stakeholders, and gain insights to improve every aspect of our operations.” He emphasized that the publication of the audit report represents a pivotal achievement in fulfilling these ambitions.

Currently, Fenix Mine is one of 22 industrial-scale operations globally participating in the IRMA independent assessment system. Notably, Anglo American’s Minas-Rio and Barro Alto mines in Brazil attained an IRMA 75 rating in February 2024, while US-based Albemarle became the first lithium producer to release an IRMA report in June 2023, achieving IRMA 50 for its Salar de Atacama site in Chile. Additionally, Gerdau, a Brazilian firm, is committed to IRMA evaluations for its operations in Minas Gerais.

Aimee Boulanger, Executive Director of IRMA, remarked: “Through detailed IRMA audit reports, mining companies, communities and companies that purchase mined materials can gain the information they need to decide what’s going well – and where improvements can be made – at specific mines.” She also noted that independent evaluations against rigorous standards can enhance benefit sharing and minimize conflicts among stakeholders.

The Fenix Mine’s pioneering release of an IRMA report highlights Arcadium Lithium’s commitment to responsible mining and transparency. With ongoing assessments and community engagement, the mine aims to enhance its practices continually. As more companies adopt the IRMA Standard, the mining industry may see improved accountability and relationships between operations and affected communities.

Original Source: www.mining-technology.com