Albemarle Achieves IRMA 50 Rating, Sets New Benchmarks for Responsible Mining

Albemarle's lithium brine extraction and concentration site in the Salar de Atacama, Chile, is the first lithium producer and third mine site globally to complete an independent audit by the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA). The site achieved an IRMA 50 level of performance in June of 2023. The audit found that the Salar site met 72% of IRMA requirements. You can read the Mine Assessment Report for the full criteria or see our breakdown in the infographic below (IRMA 50 Score Breakdown).

IRMA certification highlights an important milestone and our commitment to being a responsible operator with people and planet in mind. IRMA is the most comprehensive auditing program covering business integrity, communities, labor, and the environment. Adherence to these standards drives value for our customers and automotive brands who can trust that the lithium sourced for batteries complies with global ESG expectations. Voluntary assessment against the IRMA standard reduces cost and complexity as our customers seek transparency in their supply chains.????

A Positive Impact?

Albemarle’s responsible mining operations are evident in our Salar audit, where we met or exceeded the IRMA standard, particularly in environmental responsibility and minimizing land impacts.?Other areas of strength included waste and water management, air quality, noise and vibration, greenhouse gas emissions, and biodiversity protection.?

Commitment to Responsible Mining???

Our Salar audit results provided meaningful feedback, which we are now applying to our other mining and extraction sites to build upon their success and promote adherence to the IRMA standard. We are committed to full IRMA alignment, and the support and feedback from our customers is invaluable as we work towards our goal of setting new benchmarks for responsible mining.?