“Integrate VSS into mining operations to strengthen responsible mining initiatives”

Mutuso Dhliwayo

The  Mining Indaba and Alternative Mining Indaba, held from 3-6 February in Cape Town, spotlighted the critical role of Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) in promoting responsible mining practices. However, the discussions revealed a stark contrast in perspectives. While the Alternative Mining Indaba raised concerns about the effectiveness of VSS in fostering accountability, the Mining Indaba underscored their potential benefits.

To both convenings, the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) identified with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which are pivotal in shaping VSS, and emphasized corporate responsibility to respect human rights and ensure access to remedies for violations. In this regard, the 13th UN Annual Forum on Business and Human Rights highlighting the need for a “smart mix of measures” that includes VSS as a tool for safeguarding human rights amid business activities.

Thus, conversations at the Mining Indaba illustrated a growing consensus on business cases for companies to adopt high VSS standards. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and human rights, mining companies can not only enhance their reputations but also show that they are serious about self-regulation and responsible mining practices. Similarly, various organizations, including the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), the World Gold Council (WGC), the Copper Mark (CM) and the Mining Assciation of Canda (MAC) , are working towards a Consolidated Mining Standard initiative (CMSI). Sweden also has a Trade Policy and Policy for Responsible Business Conduct.

ZELA  notes the need for robust standards in the mining sector such as the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) and recognizes arguments that while effective and enforced legal frameworks are the gold standard for accountability, many countries grapple with governance gaps due to weak, corrupt, or ineffective state mechanisms. Therefore, in these instances, VSS can serve as a vital interim solution.

These conversations could not have come at a more opportune time for Zimbabwe, given its move towards responsoible mining through the Responsible Mining Audit. There is also a planned Zimbabwe Sustainability in Mining Expo on March 21, 2025. Organised by the Swedish Embassy in Zimbabwe, Business Sweden, and the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency, this event aims to further discussions on integrating VSS into mining operations.

However, for VSS to be deemed credible and effective, they must adhere to intenational standards and internalitonla principles. These include prioritizing transparency, participation, and accountability and multisstakeholder governance. Key recommendations to ensure this include:

• Ensuring that rights holders have an equal role in governance,
• Aligning VSS with international laws pertaining to indigenous rights,
• Establishing comprehensive criteria addressing labor, environmental protection, and anti-corruption and,
• Ensuring the processes include independent verification and robust grievance mechanisms while safeguarding human rights defenders.

As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of VSS into mining operations stands as a promising pathway toward achieving sustainable and ethical mining practices in Zimbabwe and beyond. ZELA will be involved in driving and advocating for VSS that sets the bar very high .