Britishvolt signs up to the Fair Cobalt Alliance
Britishvolt has joined the Fair Cobalt Alliance (FCA) to help develop responsible, fair and transparent cobalt supply in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The FCA is a multistakeholder action platform committed to developing responsible and fair Artisanal mining (ASM) cobalt supplies, bringing together participants from across the cobalt mineral supply chain to improve the lives of mining communities in the DRC.
This is achieved through strategies which improve vital health and safety conditions at artisanal cobalt mining sites; address and remediate child labour; promote more transparent cobalt remuneration; and extend greater opportunities to local ASM communities – through fostering entrepreneurship both inside and outside the mines.
Craig Woodburn, Head of ESG at Britishvolt, said: “This is a great initiative to be part of. Britishvolt has a very clear and defined ambition to create one of the best-in-class ESG frameworks. By joining the FCA we are aiming to reduce environmental impact, improve working conditions for miners and support action that redirect children to school and education in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“Britishvolt believes that it’s the responsibility of the entire battery industry, including manufacturers, to ensure that everyone involved is treated with respect and given the right opportunities. Collaboration is of vital importance to ensure success for all.”
Dr Assheton Carter, FCA’s Executive Director, said: “We welcome Britishvolt to the FCA. The business complements our growing membership and represents the breadth of stakeholders in the cobalt value chain that we are able to bring together.
“It is a bold step for a company starting out to make this commitment – we look forward to seeing how Britishvolt’s role in the FCA helps to shape its CSR strategy now and in the future.”
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