ICMM publishes a new toolkit in partnership with the World Bank and the Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme (ESMAP). The publication contains 17 practical "how to" tools that cover a mine's operational stages from exploration through to closure.

The Community Development Toolkit is designed to foster closer relations between mining companies, communities and governments in order to support sustainable community development activities that last beyond the life of a mining operation.

Paul Mitchell, Secretary General of ICMM, says "Community development is a key element of ICMM's core mission - the Toolkit will enable our members and others to demonstrate their commitment to the local communities where they operate."

The Toolkit, which can be applied at mining operations anywhere in the world, has its roots in southern Africa. The project concept was originally conceived at a joint workshop held in November 2000 for members of the Southern African Development Community. The initial phase of work involved a series of papers by consultants with substantive southern African experience.

There are a number of examples of current initiatives in the toolkit. The Palabora Mining Company, a member of the Rio Tinto Group, has worked in partnership with local people to develop the Titirheleni Community Gardens in the province of Limpopo, South Africa. The gardens provide incomes and produce to feed families, and training in financial, management and technical skills has enabled the project to become self-supporting.

Paul Mitchell is available for comment. Please contact Ben Peachey, ICMM Communications Manager, for further information or to arrange an interview. Electronic copies of the Toolkit are available at www.icmm.com. Hard copies are available on request.

Notes to Editors:

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) is a CEO-led organisation representing the mining and metals industry internationally. An important part of its mandate is dedicated to sustainable development. ICMM comprises many of the world's leading mining and metals companies as well as regional, national and commodity associations, all of which are committed to improving their sustainable development performance and to the responsible production of the mineral and metal resources society needs. ICMM's vision is a viable mining, minerals and metals industry that is widely recognised as essential for modern living and a key contributor to sustainable development.

ICMM's 15 corporate members are:
Alcoa, Anglo American, AngloGold Ashanti, BHP Billiton, Falconbridge, Freeport-McMoRan, Lonmin, Mitsubishi Materials, Newmont, Nippon Mining & Metals, Placer Dome, Rio Tinto, Sumitomo Metal Mining, Umicore, Zinifex.

ICMM's 24 association members are:
Camara Minera de Mexico, Chamber of Mines of South Africa, Consejo Minero de Chile A.G., Eurometaux, Euromines, Federation of Indian Mineral Industries, Indonesian Mining Association, Instituto Brasileiro de Mineraçao, International Aluminium Institute, International Copper Association, International Wrought Copper Council, International Zinc Association, Japan Mining Industry Association, Lead Development Association International, Minerals Council of Australia, Mining Association of Canada, Mining Industries Associations of Southern Africa, Nickel Institute, Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada, Sociedad Nacional de Minería de Chile, Sociedad Nacional de Minería Petróleo y Energia, The Cobalt Development Institute, World Coal Institute, World Gold Council.

International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM)

International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM)

ICMM is a CEO-led industry group that addresses key priorities and emerging issues within the sector. It seeks to play a leading role by promoting good practice and improved performance internationally and across different commodities.

ICMM provides a platform for industry and other key stakeholders to share challenges and develop solutions based on sound science and the principles of sustainable development. Its vision is for a respected mining and metals industry that is widely recognized as essential for society and as a key contributor to sustainable development.

ICMM's mission is two-fold - to distinguish its members as industry leaders and to make a contribution to raising standards across the industry as a whole.

To be an ICMM member, a company must build trust and respect with key stakeholders as a result of good performance in sustainable development, including clear and comprehensive approaches to reporting and assurance.

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