The global crisis that we are currently facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic is teaching humanity some huge lessons. Despite the current uncertainty and the expected impacts it will have on the economic, social and political system, we are convinced that, for those who can, it is an opportunity to pause the fast pace of day-to-day life and see life from another perspective. A perspective of reflection and awareness.
Today more than ever, we know that a single action can have great impact, regardless of geographical distance, social or other differences. We are now more aware that all people are connected and it is vital we help each other in order to thrive.
May this be a favourable time to make better decisions, to commit ourselves to others and to understand that our actions can positively transform other people’s lives.
From clothing, jewellery and beauty products, to electronics such as cellphones and computers. Have you wondered where all the products you use come from? In the gold industry, especially, the origin is everything.
In the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, problems such as child labour, environmental damage, poor working conditions or low-paid work, among others, are still existent.
According to the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF), an estimated 20 million people worldwide are engaged in artisanal and small-scale gold mining. Furthermore, this sector is responsible for the extraction of 20% of the gold produced worldwide. ( Report: Global Trends in Artisanal And Small-Scale Mining ASM: A Review Of Key Numbers And Issues, 2017).
For this reason, consumers and brands in the gold industry are increasingly aware that, with their actions, they can contribute to changing this scenario. This contribution is made by asking about the origin of their products and choosing gold from small mining organizations with responsible practices.
Fairmined is the example that human and environmental rights can be respected and prioritized in small-scale mining.
Fairmined, an initiative created by the Alliance for Responsible Mining, improves the conditions of small-scale mining communities and is an alternative to contribute to the transformation and development of mining organizations in Latin America and Asia.
Choosing to buy Fairmined certified gold, as over 250 brands have already done around the world, means that our jewelry or other products have been created with responsibly mined gold. Fairmined guarantees the improvement in the quality of life to the people who depend on mining organizations and contributes to protecting the environment.
Choosing Fairmined is making a responsible and conscious decision, and showing respect and empathy towards people and the planet.
It is essential that more companies and consumers in the gold industry join this quickly growing global trend of responsible consumption and thus contribute to improving the lives of many people living in territories, that are probably very different from their own, who depend on small-scale mining for a living.
The Alliance for Responsible Mining, with the Fairmined initiative and with a team that knows the reality of artisanal and small-scale mining, is an ally of those who decide to be part of a responsible gold industry. Behind every responsible product there is a transformation story that inspires us, unites us and invites us to be better in times of transformation.
We want this to be an opportunity to question ourselves about our consumption habits. Through our purchasing decisions, we can connect with others and contribute to a better collective quality of life.
Are you part of the gold industry and want to know how to join the Fairmined initiative? Click here. Are you a consumer who wants to make more responsible choices about the products that you buy? Find the brands working with Fairmined here.
