A lack of consistent and transparent data to measure emissions along the supply chain of mining companies is hindering efforts to monitor and meet decarbonization targets within the sector. Mining is a critical industry for supplying the raw materials needed for electric vehicles and renewable energy infrastructure, yet it also contributes to 4% to 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The challenge lies in the complexity of the supply chain. Mining companies produce metals used in various industries, serving customers across different regions, making it difficult to track emissions across the entire value chain. This issue is further complicated by varying levels of transparency from suppliers.

To address this problem, the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), which includes approximately 25 mining companies, has published guidance for mining companies on how to account for and report their Scope 3 emissions. Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions, such as those originating from third-party suppliers. This guidance aims to create a consistent reporting framework and help companies better account for their emissions.

Many mining companies have set decarbonization targets with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 or 2050. However, some are facing challenges in meeting these targets. For example, Rio Tinto, the world’s second-largest mining company, announced in July that it might miss its 2025 target unless it resorts to purchasing carbon offsets.

Investors are increasingly looking for mining companies to align their targets with net-zero goals across all scopes of emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3) and to set clear short, medium, and long-term targets to demonstrate their commitment to reducing emissions. The challenge for the mining industry lies in ensuring the entire supply chain adheres to these goals, as emissions reductions depend on actions taken by suppliers and partners throughout the value chain.