Standard Owner Benchmark - INITIATIVE FOR RESPONSIBLE MINING ASSURANCE (IRMA)

The Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) is an organization that promotes responsible mining practices and aims to improve social and environmental standards in the mining sector. It was founded in 2006 as a non-profit organization based in the United States.

IRMA's mission is to establish a globally recognized certification program for responsible mining, providing assurance to stakeholders that mining operations meet rigorous standards in areas such as human rights, labor rights, community engagement, environmental management, and business integrity. The organization works collaboratively with industry stakeholders, including mining companies, civil society organizations, and affected communities, to develop and implement these standards.

The IRMA Standard is a set of requirements that mining operations must meet in order to achieve certification. The standard covers a wide range of issues, including indigenous peoples' rights, worker safety, water management, biodiversity conservation, and the management of waste and hazardous substances. It also includes provisions for transparency and accountability, requiring mining companies to publicly disclose information about their operations and engage with local communities and stakeholders.

IRMA's certification process involves independent third-party assessments of mining operations to ensure compliance with the IRMA Standard. Certified mines are regularly audited to maintain their certification and demonstrate ongoing commitment to responsible practices.

As a non-profit organization, IRMA operates with the goal of advancing responsible mining practices and promoting sustainability in the mining industry, rather than seeking to generate profit. Its focus is on driving positive change and providing a trusted certification system that promotes responsible and sustainable mining practices.