Compagnie des Bauxites de Guinée (CBG), Africa’s leading bauxite producer, proudly announces the achievement of the coveted Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Performance Standard V2 certification with Provisional status, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable mining practices. This accomplishment underscores CBG’s dedication to continual improvement in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. The ASI Performance Standard Provisional Certification (Certificate 326) is valid until 17 December 2024.
CBG’s journey towards environmental and social (E&S) excellence truly commenced with its partnership with policy lenders (UFK, DFC, IFC) during the signing of the CBG Expansion Project loan in 2016. This collaboration laid the foundation for CBG’s robust E&S policies and practices, aligning with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standard and other global benchmarks.
As CBG celebrates its 60 years of breaking ground and 50 years of remarkable operations in the heart of Guinea, the ASI certification reinforces the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices. CBG’s anniversary is not only a reflection of its remarkable longevity but a testament to its enduring impact on local communities, the environment, and the global bauxite industry. This achievement is a beacon of CBG’s dedication to a sustainable future, striking a balance between economic transformation and environmental and social responsibility.
As the global demand for green minerals, including bauxite, surges amid the clean energy shift, CBG has emerged as a torchbearer for ethical and sustainable mining in Guinea. The ASI certification validates CBG’s commitment to address identified gaps, demonstrating action and progress in environmental preservation and the welfare of local communities.
CBG’s production of over 500 million metric tonnes of bauxite has been complemented by the rehabilitation of more than 2,500 hectares of land and the annual planting of over 120,000 trees. With 90% of its 2,200-strong workforce from Guinea, CBG’s support for small businesses has generated 3,000 indirect jobs, injecting over $5.2 billion into Guinea’s revenue since 1973 and investing over $60 million in essential societal infrastructure.
“Our commitment extends beyond environmental concerns to empowering the communities where we operate. We have undertaken significant initiatives to enhance local infrastructure, provide clean water and electricity, and deliver essential health services,” said Souleymane Traoré, Managing Director at CBG. The company’s commitment to local employment and support for local entrepreneurs has created thousands of opportunities, fostering socio-economic growth in the Sangaredi region.
“CBG’s journey has always been about more than bauxite valorisation. It’s about a commitment to environmental preservation, community empowerment, and ethical mining. Achieving ASI certification, and committing to address identified gaps, underscores our dedication to these principles,” said Saran Camara, Head of Reporting and Sustainable Projects Management.
Dr. Fiona Solomon, Chief Executive Officer at ASI, stated, “The report outcomes highlight that while there is progress in meeting some aspects of the Standard, there is more to do on some important environmental and social criteria. ASI Certification is an improvement journey that includes a commitment to addressing issues, demonstrating action and progress, and identifying gaps. “
Provisional ASI certification encourages CBG to continually improve its environmental and social performance, aligning with its vision of “doing more than bauxite.” An independent auditor will return to CBG in mid-2024 to verify the progress of closing the non-conformances identified during the audit.
Dr. Fiona Solomon continues, “The next audit in mid-2024 will follow up on the non-conformances identified, and we expect to continue to engage with key stakeholders in preparation for that. We thank CBG for stepping up to this improvement journey: the performance of the mining sector is critical for achieving our broader goal of a responsible aluminium value chain.”
Recognising that some vulnerable communities face challenges in benefiting from economic activity and may experience the cumulative impacts of mining on their traditional livelihoods, the company is actively developing livelihood restoration projects. These initiatives aim to bolster community resilience and improve the quality of life for those affected by our operations.
Since 1986, CBG has invested more than USD 60 million in basic social infrastructure and services, including schools, health centres, water boreholes, and road openings. Additionally, their creation of Very Small Enterprises (VSEs) has provided meaningful employment opportunities to thousands of young people in the surrounding communities of Kamsar and Sangaredi.
“As we celebrate our achievement, we remain committed to advancing our practices to strike a balance between economic transformation and environmental and social responsibility. We call upon our industry peers to join us in this commitment to create a sustainable and responsible mining sector that benefits both our environment and the communities we serve,” added Souleymane Traoré.
The attainment of ASI certification aligns seamlessly with CBG’s broader strategy to position the company as a leader in the bauxite industry and a responsible corporate citizen guided by the values of Excellence, Integrity, and Respect.