Traceability: new peaks reached
The concepts of traceability and separation of precious metal reached new levels in 2020: the use of new technologies provided a further check of the origin of metals and positively certified their source.

Lower CO₂ emissions on the entire chain
The impact of CO₂ emissions generated on the chain and the origin of raw materials are becoming important criteria for responsible supply. We have been working to reduce CO₂ emissions from our facilities for many years, and are now formally extending this effort to the entire value chain. After analysing the emissions generated on the extraction chain, we will launch a major project to involve our stakeholders and create a virtuous cycle of improved processes to reduce CO₂ emissions.

However, to achieve success, we do not want to focus only on recycled precious metal, i.e., on scrap, already aware that this material generates significantly lower CO₂ emissions, but instead will launch projects with our mining partners to decarbonise their operations.

Microloans for artisanal and small-scale mines
Argor-Heraeus has worked for many years to help artisanal and small-scale mines formalise their practices in order to enter the official precious metals market. We are one of the industry’s pioneers and a founding member of some of the main initiatives in this regard, including:

In 2020, we laid the foundations for a microloan project for these mines so that they may become economically independent as soon as possible.

Recertifications confirm our work
We work constantly to maintain and update the certifications that govern our industry, and received numerous recertifications in 2020: Fairmined and Fairtrade, LBMA gold and silver, LPPM Platinum and Palladium, RJC Code of Practices, RJC Chain of Custody, LRD.