The second target relates to removing existing GHGs from the atmosphere. Iamgold will achieve net positive biodiversity, meaning it will create more habitat for flora and fauna than it disturbs. The company will invest in nature-based solutions that further its biodiversity and act as carbon sinks. Investments will be made at its operating mines as well as globally.
“In our view, reversing the effects of climate change does not mean stabilizing emissions; it demands that we reduce the total volume of greenhouse gases going into the atmosphere and the world’s oceans year over year,” said Iamgold president and CEO Gordon Stothart. “We believe that the mining industry must do its part to be a driver of habitat creation.”
By the end of 2022, Iamgold will complete an external verification of its emissions reporting, develop and announce medium term targets of reductions and removals, and publish a roadmap of how it intends to achieve the ultimate goal of net negative emission no later than 2050. The roadmap will include estimated date by which the company expects to achieve its goal.
(This article first appeared in the Canadian Mining Journal)
