SQM Litio becomes the first lithium company to join IRMA
SQM is the first lithium company in the world to join the IRMA certification system, an initiative that promotes responsible mining practices and provides global verification. The company is now a Pending Member in IRMA’s Mining Sector, and will obtain full membership once it begins a publicly announced independent audit based on the IRMA Standard.
This milestone reflects SQM’s ongoing commitment to the environment, local communities and sustainable industries, as outlined in its robust Sustainability Plan and Human Rights Policy.
A step forward in transparency and sustainability
This Pending Membership is part of SQM’s long-standing effort to operate with high standards of transparency and ensure public reportability of its environmental, operational and social objectives. It is also closely linked to the company’s strategic role in the value chain of key global industries, such as electric vehicles and sustainable mobility.
What is IRMA and why it matters
IRMA works to promote responsible mining worldwide. To achieve this, it provides third-party verification and certification against comprehensive environmental and social criteria for all mined materials.
This global standard was developed over a decade of consultation with more than 100 stakeholder groups, including mining companies, affected communities, NGOs, labor organizations, and companies that purchase mined materials. It applies to all industrial mine sizes and covers every stage of the extraction process.
Statements from SQM’s leadership
“SQM for years has advanced in building a sustainable operation with our environment, our communities and our contribution to sustainable industries, in the understanding that our refined lithium, iodine, specialty fertilizers and solar salts must comply not only with local laws, but also with the international standard. Our operation in the Salar becoming a Pending Member of IRMA helps us to consolidate best practices to address environmental, social and governance problems,” affirmed Ricardo Ramos, CEO of SQM.
IRMA’s perspective on SQM’s membership
«We welcome SQM as a Pending Member and commend their commitment to be measured against IRMA’s Standard for Responsible Mining», said Aimee Boulanger, Executive Director of IRMA.
She added: “Given the importance of lithium in the green energy transition, and the cultural and ecological sensitivity of this region, addressing the interests of diverse stakeholders is critical. Transparent sharing of performance against an IRMA audit will provide information of value for all, and opportunities for the market to value improved practices.”