The Equator Principles and Beyond: Meeting the New IFC Guidelines in Mine Design and Financing

2008

Bruce Ramsay,

The new International Finance Corporaiton (IFC), Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines for Mining (July 2007)and the IFC Performance Standards on Social and Environmental Sustainability are having a profound impact on the approach for design, operation and closure of mines. Adherence to these guidelines and standards, through The Equator Principles Financial Institutions (EPFI), has become a requirement for financing of the majority of finanancial institutions. The guidelines and standards range from the design of tailings facilties in new mines to Community Engagement & Disclosure, Resettlement and Occupational Health and Safety. Meeting these new guidelines and standards is a challenge to owners and EPFIs alike. The authors will present an overview of the new guidelines and standards and a process to ensure compliance through presentation of a framework and case studies.

Mots Clés: IFC, finance, Environment, Sustainability