Victoria Falls Stock Exchange listed mining giant, Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact and improving its safety record, according to its latest sustainability report, which highlights a 14% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and a 62% reduction in diesel usage, among other achievements.
Caledonia Mining on Thursday released its 2023 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report, showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainability and transparency.
The company, however, recorded one fatality during the year.
According to the report seen by Nehanda Radio, Caledonia has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact.
Mark Learmonth, the company’s Chief Executive Officer, said the installation of a 12.2 MWac solar plant has been a game-changer for Caledonia.
“A major operational highlight in 2023 was the substantial 14% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions; this was made possible following the installation of our 12.2 MWac solar plant, which has decreased our reliance on both the local grid and diesel generators,” he said.
The report also highlights Caledonia’s focus on safety, with 505 employees completing safety training programs and a Total Injury Frequency Rate (TIFR) of 0.96.
However, Learmonth noted that safety remains a key focus area for the company, particularly after recording one fatality during the year.
In addition to its environmental and safety efforts, Caledonia said it has made significant contributions to the local community, including US$1.5 million spent on corporate social responsibility initiatives and 100% local employment at its Blanket Mine.
“We’re committed to delivering value to the communities we operate in and the wider country,” said Learmonth.
Looking ahead, Caledonia has prioritised reviewing and updating its climate and water management approaches, as well as continuing to mature its ESG programs.
“We know there’s still more work to be done, but we’re excited about the progress we’ve made and look forward to continuing to update our stakeholders on our journey,” said Learmonth.
Below are the 2023 highlights contained in the report:
Environment
14% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions; 62% reduction in diesel used in generators; 18% of total water consumption consisting of recycled water.
Health and Safety
Total Injury frequency rate (TIFR) of 0.96 (2022:0.75); 505 employees completed safety training programmes.
Supporting Local Communities
100% local employment at Blanket Mine and 92% local suppliers; US$1.5m spent on corporate social responsibility at Blanket Mine (2022: $0.9m); US$19.2m total payments to Government (2022: US$ 19.2m).
Diversity and Inclusion
US$147,038 spent on community support for women; 11% female representation on the Board of Directors; this has risen to 25% in 2024; 33% female representation among senior corporate management.
Caledonia recently reported robust production results for the second quarter and half year ended June 30, 2024, from its flagship Blanket Mine in Zimbabwe.
The company said gold production at Blanket Mine for the second quarter 2024 was 20,773 ounces, representing a 19% increase compared to the 17,436 ounces produced in the same quarter in 2023.
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