Adapting to a changing climate: implications for the mining and metals industry

This is one of a series of three reports that describe the work of International Council on Mining and Metals. [The other publications examine options for revenue recycling out of carbon pricing policies and the impacts of carbon prices on the competitiveness of commodities in four regions.]

There is a growing awareness that a changing climate and its impacts represent a physical risk to mining operations and installations. Investment funds and reporting regimes such as the Carbon Disclosure Project are seeking information on how companies are planning for impacts - such as rising sea levels or water scarcity - associated with a changing climate.

This report addresses three key issues. Firstly, it explains why it is important for the mining and metals sector to understand the impacts from a changing climate and to develop strategies to adapt. It then looks at relevant climate impacts and how mining and metals companies can evaluate risks and opportunities associated with those impacts. And finally, it examines the available options for adapting to climate change impacts.