11.14.2006 - 12:14pm ET

(CSRwire) What activities can mining and metals companies undertake to enhance the durability and recyclability of minerals and metals, increase the efficiency of their production and use, and minimize associated risks? These are the issues addressed in a new ICMM publication - 'Maximizing Value: Guidance on implementing materials stewardship in the minerals and metals value chain'.

Materials stewardship is the concept that ICMM has defined as the range of activities that can be undertaken to ensure that all parties - from mining and metals companies, product designers and users to regulators, the recycling industry and non-governmental organizations - work collectively toward the responsible use of metal and mineral resources.

ICMM President Paul Mitchell says, "The value of minerals to society is maximized when the various stakeholders along the value chain undertake activities that enhance the durability and recyclability of minerals and metals, increase the efficiency of their production and use, and minimize associated risks".

Containing practical guidance and case studies, the publication will assist companies in understanding and implementing effective materials stewardship strategies. Recommendations are centred on four themes which outline specific actions that will help to initiate or expand current materials stewardship programs in an organization.

Maximizing Value is available on the ICMM website at http://www.icmm.com/library_pub_detail.php?rcd=199, or you can request a hard copy by sending an email to info@icmm.com including a full postal address.