Industry associations and representative bodies

We actively participate in the activities of the following leadership organisations.

The National Mining Association (NMA)
The voice of the US mining industry in Washington, DC, represents the interests of mining to Congress, the administration, federal agencies, the judiciary and the media.

Global Mining Initiative (GMI)
The GMI, which came to its conclusions in 2002, was an industry leadership programme to develop a sustainable development model for the mining, minerals and metals industry (MMSD). It performed an independent analysis of key issues, organised a global conference on mining, metals and sustainable development (Toronto May 2002) and created an industry association, the ICMM (see following).

International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM)
ICMM members believe that the mining, minerals and metals industry acting collectively can best ensure its continued access to land, capital and markets, as well as building trust and respect by demonstrating its ability to contribute successfully to sustainable development. ICMM provides a common platform for the industry to share challenges and responsibilities as well as to engage with others on issues of common concern at the international level, based on science and the principles of sustainable development. See www.icmm.com/newsletter for further details of work programmes, its good practice website and working group meetings.

International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
The ICC is the voice of world business, championing the global economy as a force for economic growth, job creation and prosperity. ICC activities cover a broad spectrum from arbitration and dispute resolution to making the case for open trade and the market economy, business self-rights, fighting corruption and combating commercial crime. Rio Tinto's membership is through the ICC UK national committee (www.iccuk.net).  

Minerals Council of Australia (MCA)
The MCA is the principal industry organisation representing the Australian exploration, mining and minerals processing industry, nationally and internationally, in its contribution to sustainable development and society. Its strategic role centres around promoting leading operational principles and practices, engagement with opinion leaders and stakeholders and public policy advocacy. The Australian Minerals Industry Code for Environmental Management commits organisations to integration of environmental, social and economic considerations into management, consistent with the goals of sustainable development.

World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)
The WBCSD is a coalition of about 180 international companies united by a shared commitment to sustainable development through economic growth, ecological balance and social progress. It aims to use business leadership to advocate change towards sustainable development and to promotes the role of eco-efficiency, innovation and corporate social responsibility in business. Its work includes policy development, the development of best practice guidance and global outreach.

World Economic Forum (WEF)
The WEF is a global community of business, political, intellectual and other leaders of society committed to improving the state of the world. The forum is an independent, international, not-for-profit foundation engaged in sectoral work projects. Rio Tinto supports the annual WEF Global Corporate Citizenship Statement.