What are the main highlights and achievements of ERM's team in the past 12 months?

Over the past year, ERM saw significant growth, fueled by the global demand for critical minerals in the low-carbon energy transition. We've engaged in due diligence projects merging technical and ESG expertise. The former CSA Global team, experts in exploration, geology, mining, engineering and processing, joined forces with ESG specialists from ERM to offer a potent solution. We've been deeply immersed in enhancing our understanding of ore bodies, including the provision of early-stage exploration for junior mining companies to advanced projects for major mining companies. Our team has led environmental & social impact assessments for numerous mine developments globally, and we’ve been involved in multiple advisory projects driven by the GISTM (Global Industry Standard for Tailings Management) with a growing focus on mine closure and waste management. We have continued to offer our technical services such as prospectivity assessments and project screening, with a specific focus on critical minerals.

What are ERM's key areas of focus in terms of critical minerals in Africa? 

The demand for critical minerals is predicted to increase many-fold, but these minerals need to be mined, processed, and transported responsibly and sustainably. Our Africa-based teams support clients in all aspects of exploration, resource evaluation, geo-political advisory, mine planning, sustainability strategy, energy, impact assessment, responsible mining standards, water, supply chain and mine closure.

How important is sustainability to mining customers in Africa?

Sustainability has emerged as a paramount concern for mining clients in Africa. Unlike other regions, Africa places a distinct emphasis on local economic impacts, compliance and transparency. Factors such as community expectations, stringent regulations, and heightened investor scrutiny have propelled this shift. ERM is instrumental in guiding our clients to address these pressing issues. We frequently counsel early-stage exploration companies on crafting tailored ESG frameworks, ensuring they align with investor and stakeholder expectations. By proactively identifying and managing ESG risks and opportunities from project inception, we assist in cultivating a robust social license to operate, navigating geopolitical risks and mitigating environmental impacts. This proactive approach ultimately positions clients to access more cost-effective financing, secure investments from major industry players, and establish partnerships with ESG-focused metals consumers.

What trends are you seeing in water management and tailings practices within the industry? 

Water management and tailings practices within the African mining industry are evolving in response to heightened environmental awareness and regulatory changes like the GISTM. Several noteworthy trends include hydrogeological and hydrological studies, advanced tailings disposal methods, and comprehensive water balance analysis. We have been involved in water risk-related work, water strategies, and water stewardship, and we have been reviewing recent public disclosures regarding tailings. Our digital and data analytics teams play a crucial role in identifying how we can further assist the industry in moving forward. The industry's heightened focus on water and tailings has propelled a strategic drive to optimize data assets, identify gaps, and integrate emerging technologies for a more robust position within their operational catchments.

How important are consultancies like ERM in helping the mining industry achieve its sustainable development goals?

We play a pivotal and multifaceted role in partnering with the mining industry to achieve its sustainable development goals (SDGs) and secure sustainable investment. We bring specialized technical knowledge, facilitate ESG integration, identify and mitigate risks, support stakeholder engagement, and promote innovation and best practices. Adaptability and commitment to sustainability are key priorities as consultancies continue to shape the future of the mining industry and contribute to its SDGs.

What are your plans for the near future?

Our vision for Africa revolves around being at the forefront of the critical mineral evolution and sustainable practices in mining. Our commitment to aligning with global standards and values positions us as a key player in shaping Africa's role in the global critical minerals supply chain. ERM’s growth priorities for the upcoming year are strategically aligned with the global green energy transition and the heightened focus on ESG considerations. These priorities include a focus on critical minerals, deepening ESG integration, expanding the client base to include automotive and chemical companies, providing integrated due diligence offerings to financial institutions and positioning us as thought leaders in sustainable mining services.