Friction: Edition 18 | June 2024
FROM THE EDITOR
Good governance encompasses not only the system by which organisations are controlled, but the mechanisms by which organisations and those who comprise them are held to account.
This month we dive deep into corporate governance framework and look at the crucial role the board of governance plays in navigating sustainability, risk management and legislative requirements.
With more than 30 years of exposure to geotechnical and hydro risk, Wouter Hartman, Senior Principal Geotechnical Engineer at Cartledge Mining and Geotechnics shares an in-depth analysis of the structures behind corporate governance and the ways in which it guides and influences all stages of a mine life cycle, from planning and design to risk management and rehabilitation.
We also get to know Phil Dight, Professor of Geotechnical Engineering, Australian Centre for Geomechanics at The University of Western Australia. Phil joins us as our June Q&A feature and shares insights into his experience as a geotechnical engineer, his views on industry opportunities and challenges and the importance of getting out into the field for hands-on experience.
With ample networking opportunities and industry events taking place around the world, be sure to check out what's on near you in our events calendar. If you’re also interested in joining a geotechnical association in your area, check out our Associations Directory.
Regards,
Tim Cartledge
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Corporate Governance: Mining geotechnics and the storage of tailings
From the planning and design phases to closure and rehabilitation, corporate governance has significant impacts throughout the entirety of a mine’s life cycle. So, it is important that we, as geotechnical engineers, understand the structures behind corporate governance to best achieve compliance.
In this piece, Wouter Hartman explores how governments and regulators are striding towards a more sustainable and safe future for the mining industry, through the improved regulatory, compliance and risk management processes that underpin how a corporation conducts its business. Wouter also shares his knowledge on common corporate governance structures.
Q&A with Phil Dight
Like a geologist chipping away, let's unearth the hidden layers of Phil Dight, Professor of Geotechnical Engineering at The Australian Centre for Geomechanics, The University of Western Australia (UWA), by asking all the important questions.
From the importance of geology in engineering to his passion for teaching, Phil shares profound insight on his experience and the industry, through the lens of a Professor in the specialised field.
NEWS, PUBLICATIONS AND UPDATES
Governance in mining: Management, ethics, sustainability and efficiency
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) can be complex and challenging, but it is a necessary framework for today’s organisations. To ensure all requirements are met, a deep understanding of governance is crucial.
J. Andrés Domínguez-Gómez and Teresa González-Gómez explore the concept of governance and its development by revealing the four most common governance models used in the mining industry – corporative governance, contextual governance, meta-governance and environmental governance – while considering the balancing of social and ecological impacts.
The role of corporate governance: How to develop a global tailings division
The role of corporate governance: How to develop a global tailings division
As geotechnical engineers, safety and sustainability should always be at the forefront of our minds, especially regarding tailings management.
Louise McNab (with co-contributors) explores why it is crucial to have a comprehensive tailings governance framework that establishes the rules and guidelines for decision-making, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards, and setting expectations for performance.
She also suggests that the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) framework should be viewed as a minimum requirement rather than a comprehensive solution.
Five KPIs for tailings management: Sustainable mining
In response to the challenges of mine waste management, the industry is embracing a stricter approach to sustainability.
As geotechnical engineers, we must lead the way in adopting the latest industry standards.
The Tailings Management Protocol, part of the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) initiative by the Mining Association of Canada (MAC), provides a structured framework aimed at minimising environmental and safety risks associated with tailings. It underscores the essential integration of sustainable practices into mining projects. Read their suggestions in Fernando Demasio’s article.
ASX Corporate Governance Council Principles and recommendations, 5th edition consultation
In response to the ASX Corporate Governance Principles 5th edition consultation, the Governance Institute advocates for governance standards that accommodate diverse organisational needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
While these principles have been pivotal in fostering transparency and accountability, flexibility is key to nurturing a dynamic business environment, especially as we navigate significant regulatory change.
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