Rio Tinto publishes global audit on cultural heritage management

The mining company commissioned an independent review on its Cultural Heritage Management compliance and performance.

Sustainability consultancy Environmental Resources Management (ERM) conducted the report across 37 Rio Tinto assets, throughout 2021 and 2022. The audit was done globally, assessing 20 assets in Australia and 17 in other countries.

It comes after the destruction of the Juukan Gorge in May 2020 to expand the iron ore mine by the company. ‘Our immediate focus was in Australia following Juukan Gorge before steadily expanding across our global operations’ said Rio Tinto Chief Executive, Australia, Kellie Parker. Prior to the destruction, the site was a sacred site for Puutu Kunti Kurrama and Pinikura peoples.

Stefani Eagle, ERM Consulting Director (Cultural Heritage), said ‘While examples of good cultural heritage practice were found, there are further improvements that are required to meet their internal standards and ensure all assets have appropriate foundations, underpinned by the principles of co-design.’

Click here for the report.