In the heart of Peru, Southern Peaks Mining (SPM), a Peruvian mining company specializing in the extraction, processing and commercialization of copper concentrates, is setting a new standard for sustainable mining practices. The company is also demonstrating that mining, agriculture, and sustainable development can go hand in hand – with the support of Achilles.
When Compañía Minera Condestable, the SPM owned and operated underground copper mine, was awarded The Copper Mark certification in August 2022, it was the first time in the world that the prestigious certification for copper-producing companies recognized a medium-sized mining company with world-class standards. The Copper Mark is a prestigious accreditation that recognizes companies that promote and follow responsible mining practices across the copper value chains.
Processing over 8,000 tons of ore per day, with an output of 300+ tons of copper concentrate daily, and located in Mala, just one and a half hours from Lima, Compañía Minera Condestable relies on a diversified supplier network. Notably, 95% of its suppliers are based in Lima, while the remainder come from major mining regions in the U.S., Canada, China, Chile and occasionally Brazil.
To obtain its Copper Mark certification, the mining company went through an exhaustive process, in which environmental criteria – such as reducing its carbon footprint and the sustainable use of water – as well as social and corporate governance criteria, were reviewed.
As part of this work and in support of SPM’s commitment to its Constant Innovation and Sustainability pillars, the company partnered with Achilles to ensure its suppliers also met its stringent sustainability goals, aligning procurement practices with SPM’s broader environmental and social commitments.
Through its collaboration with Achilles, SPM was able to elevate its approach to supplier prequalification, ensuring supplier compliance with the highest industry standards. SPM has also demonstrated its commitment to responsible sourcing, environmental protection, and social responsibility.
Achieving 100% Homologated Supplier Compliance through Achilles
SPM works with Achilles to streamline its supplier qualification process to meet its sustainability goals and adhere to rigorous standards. According to Luis Garro, SPM’s Vice President of Supply Chain Management, Achilles plays a vital role in ensuring that all suppliers meet SPM’s ESG requirements. Leveraging the MyAchilles Platform, SPM ensures that 100% of its supplier base is approved in line with its stringent ESG standards. This process is integral not only to maintain ethical operations but also to secure SPM’s Copper Mark certification.
According to Mr. Garro, using Achilles’ prequalification process also allows SPM to monitor and track how well its suppliers align with the company’s values and policies. This commitment to supplier alignment ensures that sustainability is embedded throughout the supply chain—from sourcing raw materials to final production.
Copper Mark Certification: A Commitment to Highest Standards in Sustainability and Attracting Investments
SPM is the first medium-sized mining company worldwide to obtain the Copper Mark Certification. This certification acknowledges the company’s dedication to sustainable practices and has helped attract investment by showcasing its commitment to ethical and environmentally conscious operations. “We must ensure that good behaviour is upheld not only within our operations but also by our suppliers,” stated Mr. Garro.
Achilles’ expertise in supplier prequalification, coupled with its technology expertise, has been instrumental in helping SPM uphold the Copper Mark standards and maintain certification since 2022. By assessing suppliers and helping SPM track and monitor progress on how every supplier adheres to SPM´s sustainability standards, Achilles ensures that SPM’s supply chain partners contribute positively to its sustainability mission.
Building a Future-Ready, Sustainable Supply Chain
SPM is committed to sustainable operations demonstrating a responsible production practice aligned with contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ICMM standards, and other international standards underpinned by its Constant Innovation and Sustainability pillars.
With its sights set on long-term sustainable growth, SPM continues to work with Achilles to maintain transparency and build resilience within its supply chain. This collaboration supports SPM’s compliance efforts and reinforces its industry reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking company.
From Mine to Market, Achilles helps Mining Companies to Clearly Demonstrate Their Commitment to Responsible Mining Practices.
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