RioTinto's Approach to Management of Tailings and Water Storage Facilities

Challenge the practice is addressing: The management of tailings and water storage facilities is a complex and challenging issue for Rio Tinto, with key challenges including environmental impacts, regulatory requirements, water management, sustainability, and cost.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: Rio Tinto has established several concrete practices to ensure the effective management of its tailings and water storage facilities. This includes regular risk assessments, following best practices in design and construction, comprehensive monitoring and inspection programs, water management initiatives, a well-defined closure and rehabilitation plan, and a commitment to continuous improvement through research and development. These practices ensure that the company's tailings and water storage facilities are operated safely and efficiently, minimizing the impact of its operations on the environment and local communities.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: The expected goal of Rio Tinto's management of tailings and water storage facilities standard is to ensure the safe, responsible, and sustainable management of these facilities. This includes minimizing the potential for breaches or other failures, reducing the impact of its operations on local water resources, and decommissioning and restoring facilities in a responsible and sustainable manner. The company is also committed to continuously improving its management practices to ensure that it is operating at the forefront of best practices in this area. The ultimate goal is to ensure the stability and safety of its tailings and water storage facilities, while supporting its commitment to sustainability and responsible resource development.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? This practice is for companies in the extractive industry.