IPNEWS: In commitment to environmental stewardship, ArcelorMittal is spearheading initiatives to ensure sustainability at the core of its Liberian mining project.
Acknowledging the unique environmental challenges posed by steel production, particularly in the biodiversity-rich Nimba Mountain range, the global steel giant is taking bold steps to mitigate its impact and foster a harmonious coexistence with the local ecosystem.
Nimba Mountain, renowned for its biodiversity and host to numerous endemic species, has been a focal point for ArcelorMittal’s environmental responsibility.
While the mining project encompasses roughly 500 hectares, representing less than one percent of the total forest, the company is dedicated to preventing any net damage to the Liberian environment.
Recognizing the existing threats of severe forest degradation due to agricultural practices and overhunting, ArcelorMittal conducted a comprehensive year-long environmental survey, the most extensive ever undertaken in Liberia.
The survey unveiled new species and identified over 400 species of birds, along with more than 740 species of butterflies and moths inhabiting the region making Mount Nimba earn the highest ranking in the Alliance for Zero Extinction in Africa, underscoring its significance as a critical refuge for endangered animals.
In response to the ongoing challenges, ArcelorMittal launched the Biodiversity Conservation Program in August 2011. This program signifies a paradigm shift towards sustainable forest management, incorporating a robust stakeholder consultation process to ensure comprehensive engagement at all levels.
Several memorandums of understanding were inked in July 2012 between ArcelorMittal and the Forestry Development Authority, solidifying joint efforts to support and manage the forests in the Nimba Mountains.
The company envisions establishing a Nimba Mountains conservation area, designed for multiple land uses within appropriately designated zones, a strategic vision AML says aims to foster sustainable land management, ensuring the preservation of a healthy and biodiverse ecosystem.
ArcelorMittal’s commitment to sustainability is enshrined in its Environmental Policy, which mandates employees and suppliers to achieve a high standard of environmental management, comply with all relevant laws and regulations and continuously improve environmental performance.
The mining company’s commitment also utilize low-impact production methods, leveraging locally available materials, use natural resources, energy, and land effectively and cultivate employee commitment and responsibility in environmental performance.
AML through this commitment also maintains open communication with all stakeholders affected by company operations.
As ArcelorMittal strives for sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices, its resolute dedication to these standards marks a significant stride towards a future where industrial progress coexists harmoniously with the preservation of invaluable ecosystems.
