From Extraction to Contribution?: Responsible Mining in the Transition Economy

​The transition economy needs minerals. But it also needs a new understanding of the role that well-governed, responsible mining can play in delivering climate, nature and development outcomes

​The transition to a low-carbon, nature-positive economy will require not less mining, but more responsible mining. At the same time, expectations of the sector are rising, albeit among a confusing policy landscape. Mining must demonstrate that it can deliver essential minerals while contributing positively to communities, economies, climate action and nature.

​Convened by the World Gold Council at the World Climate Summit during COP31, this workshop will explore what “responsible mining” should mean in the transition economy, what role gold might play in helping deliver positive environmental and social outcomes

​Using gold mining as one lens, but deliberately broadening the conversation across the minerals sector, the session will consider how responsible mining can contribute to:

• ​decarbonisation and the energy transition, including the infrastructure and minerals on which it depends;

• ​economic and social development, particularly in resource-producing countries and communities;

• ​nature and biodiversity, moving beyond managing impacts towards opportunities for restoration and positive outcomes;

• ​trust and legitimacy, including the standards, transparency and partnerships needed to demonstrate positive impact.

​The workshop will move beyond the familiar debate about why mining matters to explore a broader and perhaps more pressing challenge: what will it take for responsible mining to build the trust, recognition and legitimacy needed to play its full part in a sustainable transition?