NSSGA addresses sustainability

NSSGA has jumped on the sustainability bandwagon. The association's Board of Directors has unanimously approved Guiding Principles for Sustainability for its members. These Guiding Principles, developed by a multi-divisional task force of the association, define sustainability for the aggregates industry as a business approach that integrates environmental, social and economic aspects to ensure the long-term supply of aggregate materials to society, according to the association. The board further recognized that sustainability is a developing issue in the markets where NSSGA members operate and sustainable practices in our industry are necessary today to preserve the potential for a quality life for future generations.

NSSGA’s Sustainability Guiding Principles address the three pillars of sustainability – environmental, social and economic – in the mining life cycle context of an aggregate operation. Overarching Practices describe, among others, the overall commitment of the industry to reinvest in the communities in which we operate, to adhere to the highest ethical business standards, to minimize life cycle impacts, and to demonstrate a strong and unwavering commitment to safety, health and the environment at our operations. The Guiding Principles also encourage specific sustainable practices during the planning, operational and closure phases of the life of an aggregate operation.

The document also describes the business case for implementing sustainability practices. The long-term viability of the aggregates industry is dependent on obtaining and maintaining a social license to operate. These licenses are based on discretionary decisions by local government bodies that are heavily influenced by political/public opinion. NSSGA member companies will enhance their ability to obtain these licenses when applying sustainability guidelines. Public resource agencies are now implementing frameworks based on sustainable development. NSSGA member companies will increase their abilities to compete effectively by implementing NSSGA’s Sustainability Guiding Principles. These guidelines emphasize the efficient use of resources, which reduces costs and contributes to profitability. Implementing sustainability guidelines will help to coordinate and improve the effectiveness of multi-disciplinary programs such as community relations, environment, safety and health, operations and legal issues at NSSGA member companies, according to the association. Your comment?