Message from the chief executive
Rio Tinto recognises that business has a responsibility to society. We seek to meet that responsibility by the way we do business.
An example of our approach is the development of the QMM ilmenite project in Madagascar, announced in August 2005. It will provide the catalyst for the broader economic development of one of the poorest regions of the world. It gives us the opportunity to demonstrate the contribution that mining can make to sustainable development through the successful integration of financial, environmental and community objectives.
Our results in most areas of activity have improved compared to 2004, and it is pleasing to note that we appear to be on track to achieve our targets. I am delighted there was a significant improvement in our safety record for the sixth year in a row. However, I am sorry to report that there were two fatal incidents at managed operations. The circumstances of both have been thoroughly investigated for root causes and steps have been taken around the Group to embed the lessons learned.
Although our occupational health and environment stretch targets have been a challenge for many businesses, we are starting to see the benefits in improved performance. These targets have raised the profile of noise reduction, occupational illness, greenhouse gas emissions, energy and freshwater use throughout our businesses. Improving performance in greenhouse gas emissions has been particularly difficult, and has been achieved in an environment of increasing demand for many of our commodities, and a changing product mix.
In 2005 we largely completed implementation of the environment standards and for the first time conducted audits against the full suite of HSE standards at selected operations. We commenced implementation of our biodiversity and water strategies, continued working on approaches to product stewardship and acid rock drainage, and commenced reviewing closure plans against the closure standard.
Improvement of social performance includes development of community consultation and engagement plans, and the creation and support of partnership foundations to advance sustainable livelihoods and health and education services, including among indigenous populations.
Rio Tinto has reported in accordance with the core Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) indicators and the additional Mining and Metal Sector Supplement indicators for the first time in 2005. The GRI Report is provided in full on this website and has been prepared in accordance with the 2002 GRI guidelines. It represents a balanced and reasonable presentation of our organisation's economic, environmental and social performance.
As in previous years, we welcome your feedback through the feedback faciltiy on this website.
Leigh Clifford
Chief executive
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