Industry body The ICMM has published new editions of key resources, with updates designed to improve how mining companies plan and manage the closure of tailings storage facilities.

The Tailings Management Good Practice Guide (Second edition) and Integrated Mine Closure Good Practice Guide (Third edition) aim to introduce enhanced strategies for integrating tailings management and mine closure processes.

These updates are said to reflect the latest industry knowledge and guide companies to strengthen the governance and long-term stability of closed facilities.

The closure of tailings storage facilities is one of the most complex, longest and resource-intensive phases within a mine’s lifecycle, the ICMM points out, noting that it requires extensive environmental assessments, long-term monitoring, rehabilitation and maintenance strategies to manage safety, environmental and social risks.

The ICMM’s approach emphasises early planning, strong governance and progressive closure activities aimed at facilitating delivery of positive outcomes for both ecosystems and local communities.

The updates provide support for companies in developing meaningful success criteria for the closure of a tailings storage facility; setting clearer governance structures during closure and post-closure stages; and improving integration of closure considerations into tailings storage facility design and operation.

“Closure is a critical phase of every mining or metals processing operation and presents an opportunity to strengthen environmental, social and economic resilience far beyond the mine’s life cycle.

“Achieving these positive outcomes hinges on early planning and progressive closure approaches – especially for tailings storage facilities, where risks can extend long after operations cease,” says ICMM director Dr Emma Gagen.

“The ICMM’s updated tailings management and integrated mine closure guidance will help companies to continually learn and improve, raising the bar on safety and environmental stewardship across the sector for decades to come,” she adds.

The ICMM emphasises that it remains committed to fostering collaboration and shared learning across the mining industry.

These updated guidance documents are designed to support member commitments on tailings management and mine closure, but also to advance sustainable practices across the broader industry.

They are free and available to all on the ICMM website.