Newmont recognizes the risk posed by mercury due to its unique properties which allow it to circulate in the global environment. It is an element that is persistent and bio-accumulative and can harm human health and the environment when it is converted to methyl mercury.
As such Newmont commits to becoming a global industry leader in the management of mercury, and will:
- Set 2012 as the target date to retire by-product mercury from circulation via an environmentally acceptable and appropriate technology;
- Continue, in the interim, to sell its mercury only where a responsible supply chain materials stewardship approach can be demonstrated that promotes the recovery and responsible management of mercury and minimizes releases and unintended uses throughout its life-cycle;
- Control and manage point source air emissions of mercury through the application of maximum achievable control technology 1 at the mines we operate;
- Actively engage in the development of international and national policy that promotes awareness of mercury-related risks, enhances scientific understanding of mercury transport and fate, and advocates mercury reduction, recovery and eventual retirement; and,
- Through participation in international initiatives focused on the transfer of low to no-mercury technology, support the building of capacity for artisanal and small scale miners to reduce mercury usage.
1 Based on Nevada MACT as defined in the Nevada Mercury Control Program
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