News Release

In March 2022, JX Metals Smelting Co., Ltd. (President: Yasuda Yutaka; "JX Metals Smelting"), a subsidiary of JX Nippon Mining & Metals Corporation (President: Murayama Seiichi; "the Company"), started procedures for Copper Mark accreditation.

　

Established in 2019 by the International Copper Association,^* the Copper mark is a framework to demonstrate the copper industry's responsible production practices and contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of the Copper Mark accreditation process, an independent entity assesses conformity with environmental, human rights, community, and governance standards. Once accreditation is granted, fulfillment of these criteria is re-assessed every three years.

　

The accreditation procedures cover JX Metal Smelting's Saganoseki Smelter & Refinery and Hitachi Refinery. As well as playing a role in producing raw materials for the Company's advanced materials, which are essential to the development of society, JX Metals Smelting is reducing energy consumption and effectively utilizing resources through "hybrid smelting," which further increases the proportion of recycled raw materials in its products, and introduction of CO2-free electricity. Copper Mark accreditation will further promote responsible production practices at both sites.

　

The JX Nippon Mining & Metals Group will contribute to realizing a decarbonized and sustainable society through integrated management of every stage of its business, from resources to metal smelting and refining, advanced materials, and recycling.

　

*About the International Copper Association (ICA)
ICA is a global organization with a membership of copper mining, smelting/refining, and processing companies. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., its aims are opening up new markets including development of new applications for copper, promoting demand, and actively contributing to achievement of the United Nations SDGs.