The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) Has Issued New Guidance on the Closure of Tailings Storage Facilities.
These include:
Tailings Management Good Practice Guide (2nd Edition) — ICMM Tailings Management Good Practice Guide
Integrated Mine Closure Good Practice Guide (3rd Edition) — ICMM Integrated Mine Closure Good Practice Guide
The updated guidance introduces improved strategies for integrating tailings storage facility closure with the broader mine closure process. The revisions incorporate the latest industry knowledge and provide companies with practical guidance on strengthening closure governance and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The closure of a tailings storage facility is one of the most complex, time-consuming, and resource-intensive stages in the life of a mine. It requires environmental assessment, long-term monitoring, rehabilitation, and maintenance strategies, while also addressing safety, environmental, and social risks.
The ICMM approach places particular emphasis on early planning, strong governance, and effective monitoring throughout the closure process. These practices can help deliver positive outcomes for the environment and local communities.
The updated guides can help companies to:
Develop meaningful and measurable success criteria for tailings storage facility closure.
Establish clearer governance structures for the closure and post-closure phases.
Better integrate closure considerations into the planning, design, and operation of tailings storage facilities.
The ICMM continues to promote collaboration, learning, and knowledge sharing across the mining industry. These updated guides are intended not only to support the commitments of ICMM member companies in tailings management and mine closure, but also to contribute to more sustainable mining practices globally.
The guidance documents are freely available to the public on the ICMM website: ICMM Integrated Mine Closure
Relevance to Mongolia
For companies operating in Mongolia's mining sector, these updated guides provide valuable guidance for improving the safety, environmental performance, and social responsibility associated with tailings storage facility closure.
Applying these good practices can contribute to the sustainable development of Mongolia's mining industry and create opportunities to promote responsible mining practices aligned with international standards.
