The “Towards” in TSM is intentional, referencing the constant progression that drives the improvements in the standard’s expectations of mining companies in environmental stewardship and community engagement. Not only are TSM’s protocols consistently updated to reach ever higher benchmarks but new elements are also added to the standard when rights holders, stakeholders, the public, customers and investors voice their interest in seeing data on how mines are performing in specific areas. This is particularly true most recently in the area of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).

To meet the increased global demand for minerals and metals, the mining industry needs a highly skilled and diverse workforce, an area the mining sector, which continues to be predominantly white and male dominated, has historically struggled with. While there is clear potential for a more respectful, equitable, diverse and inclusive mining workforce, many companies are looking for guidance in order to best achieve this objective. The homogenous nature of the mining industry, particularly in the face of labour market shortages, must change.

In recognition of this fact, TSM is developing brand new requirements on EDI, expected to be published later in 2023, that will ensure that TSM remains the leading industry standard when it comes to environmental stewardship, community engagement and inclusive practices.