Benefits of adopting the Code

The Code commits companies to a journey of continual improvement at a pace dictated by the company's resources and factors including stakeholder concerns, government regulation and technological change.

The Code provides an opportunity for the minerals industry to demonstrate application of a consistent approach to environmental management across all jurisdictions.

In a relatively short time, information in annual reports will help establish benchmarks of excellence in environmental management and facilitate the transfer of technology.

Signatories, and minerals industry associations, can use information in annual reports to promote industry achievement and community consultation. Performance disclosure provides an avenue for disseminating facts regarding company performance and facilitates positive engagement of stakeholders with an interest in the signatory's activities.

A track record in conforming with the Code will increase regulatory agency and stakeholder confidence in a signatory's environmental management ability. This may reduce inspections by regulatory agencies, lower licence and permit fees, and expedite environmental approvals.

Conformance with Code principles will assist companies in demonstrating diligence in managing the environmental aspects of their operations.