NMA Members Receive Environmental Awards

Last week, two National Mining Association (NMA) members received Reclamation and Sustainable Mineral Development Awards from the U.S. Department of the Interior, according to a recent International Mining post. NMA president and CEO, Hal Quinn, stated, “NMA is proud of these award winners for the commitment they have shown to sustainable mining techniques, to best practices and to the communities in which they operate.”

NMA members Barrick Gold and Newmont Mining took home the Reclamation and Sustainable Mineral Development Awards for “outstanding reclamation activities that restore land” and “recognize community outreach programs.” Modern mining encompasses much more than simply extracting raw materials, it’s also about good stewardship of the land and strong relationships with local communities.  The U.S. Department of the Interior recognizes these important contributions to the economy and the environment through its annual awards. The recipients demonstrate unwavering “sustainable mining practices,” which, according to Quinn, “has contributed to millions of acres of land successfully reclaimed by America’s mining companies over the past quarter century.”

In addition to environmental stewardship, the industry is committed to upholding the principles of being a good neighbor. People are the core of U.S. minerals mining, which means the industry works to respect and care for its employees and nearby communities. Many mines engage with the community through public forums, for example, to ensure a more holistic and collaborative approach to the project from its inception.

Environmental stewardship and safety go hand in hand with minerals mining, and we are proud this year’s award winners represent these values well. NMA takes environmental performance, mine reclamation accomplishments and community outreach programs seriously, and it is an honor that our members received several of the Department of the Interior’s awards.