The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) is leading a groundbreaking initiative to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the mining sector. With a focus on gender equality and representation, the organization has introduced a comprehensive benchmark to evaluate hiring, pay, and training practices, committing to biennial progress reports starting in 2026.
In an industry often criticized for gender disparities and workplace safety issues, ICMM’s initiative marks a significant step forward. The council has also released practical tools and a detailed roadmap to guide mining companies in creating safer and more inclusive work environments.
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A Bold Commitment to Equity
ICMM’s commitment to advancing DEI is rooted in its 2023 DEI Position Statement, where members pledged to:
- Set and disclose collective and individual DEI goals.
- Develop and publish actionable roadmaps.
- Monitor and report progress toward these goals.
- Collaborate to address shared industry challenges.
“This benchmark and roadmap demonstrate our shared determination to build a mining sector that is not only more equitable but also a better place to work,” said Danielle Martin, Director of Social Performance and Co-COO at ICMM. “Meaningful progress requires deliberate effort and accountability. These tools will help companies identify gaps, set standards, and measure success.”
The first performance report, due in 2026, will provide stakeholders with critical insights into the progress of ICMM’s 25 member companies.
Tools for Change
To help mining companies implement effective DEI strategies, ICMM has introduced six tools focusing on:
- Inclusive Language: Encouraging unbiased and respectful communication.
- Strategic Integration: Embedding DEI into governance and business strategies.
- Inclusive Workspaces: Designing environments that prioritize diversity and safety.
- Psychological Safety: Addressing mental health and fostering workplace well-being.
- Local Nuances: Tailoring practices to reflect cultural and regional contexts.
- Maturity Assessment: Using a matrix to measure progress and define goals.
These resources, supported by a milestone-driven roadmap, aim to inspire other mining companies to adopt similar practices.
A Vision for Industry-Wide Transformation
Mining companies face increasing pressure to address systemic inequities and unsafe working conditions. Jonathan Price, CEO of Teck Resources, underscored the urgency of this shift: “No one should experience harassment, discrimination, or unsafe conditions at work. We must eliminate these harmful behaviors and create a truly diverse and psychologically safe environment. This is critical for attracting and retaining talent.”
ICMM’s initiative highlights the importance of sustained collaboration and humility in driving meaningful change. “While there’s still work to do, this commitment reflects a shared understanding that progress relies on humility, collaboration, and consistent action,” Price added.
A New Era of Accountability
By introducing a transparent benchmarking system and supportive tools, ICMM aims to set a new standard for DEI in mining. This initiative holds its members accountable while providing a model for the broader industry.
With its first report set for 2026, ICMM’s efforts emphasize that creating inclusive workplaces is both a moral obligation and a strategic necessity. As the industry confronts future challenges, attracting diverse talent will be key to sustained growth and innovation.
