Europe’s largest copper producer, Aurubis AG, has joined forces with Chile’s state-owned copper miner, Codelco, in a cooperative agreement aimed at promoting responsible copper production practices.
This collaboration follows last years signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU), renewing the German-Chilean raw material alliance, with both companies intending to work together towards creating a more sustainable copper value chain.
Aurubis and Codelco plan to engage a wide range of initiatives, including the implementation of technical projects in Chile, an exchange programme for employees, and the expansion of commercial activities to better facilitate the global energy transition.
In the short-term, the two companies have plans to develop over 15 projects, although the specific costs have not been disclosed yet.
Aurubis plans to contribute its technological expertise, namely its state-of-the-art fine particle filters, analysis and testing methods, and other measures to protect the local environment. Aurubis is well-known for technologies such as this at its main smelter in Hamburg, where it has successfully achieved low pollution levels, enabling operations within a city-centre location.
Codelco, on the other hand, will take charge of project implementation. Furthermore, Aurubis and Codelco will share their experiences and insights regarding the sustainability standards.
Aurubis CEO, Roland Harings, emphasized the unique nature of this collaboration within the copper industry and stressed the importance of supply chain stakeholders uniting to transform the global copper sector.
“We are working with our raw material partners worldwide to set new standards in sustainable copper production. Our cooperation with Codelco is an indication of our successful approach,” Aurubis CEO Roland Harings said. “The signatures of both parties signal their willingness to intensify this process and leverage potential for creating more ecological and socially responsible supply chains.”
Codelco CEO, Ruben Alvarado, echoed the significance of environmentally friendly production and expressed how the partnership with Aurubis will play a pivotal role in achieving this objective.
“We are all targeting a central objective, environmentally friendly production, and this cooperation with Aurubis is an important driver here,” added Codelco CEO Ruben Alvarado.
Commencing in April 2024, a tailored expert exchange programme will provide participants with the opportunity to delve deeper into environmental, occupational safety, and health issues, fostering a better understanding of sustainable supply chain practices.
As part of the agreement, the two companies have also committed to sharing experiences related to The Copper Mark, a recognized seal for sustainability and integrity in the copper industry.
Codelco has already completed The Copper Mark assurance process for its mines, smelters, and refineries since signing the MoU with Aurubis a year ago. Aurubis is set to conclude its certification in accordance with The Copper Mark for all its large smelters in 2024 and undergo its first re-audit.
The Copper Mark encompasses 32 internationally recognized sustainability standards, further solidifying the commitment of both companies to responsible copper production practices.
