Sustainable Water Management Protocol – TSM
The Water Management Protocol, introduced by the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) as part of the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) initiative, offers a strategic roadmap for mining companies to address water management challenges, with a focus on sustainability, responsibility and community engagement.
Embracing sustainable water management for a sustainable future in mining
Water is not just a resource; It is a global need that connects to the ecological, social and economic spheres. The Water Management Protocol provides an organized framework for evaluating and improving performance in water management, with clear indicators and criteria divided into four main areas:
4 key performance indicators (KPIs) for water management
Indicator 1: Water governance
Water Governance lays the foundation for sound leadership. It sets out the fundamental commitment and accountability mechanisms necessary for effective water management, ensuring that these commitments are clearly communicated to relevant stakeholders.
Indicator 2: Operational water management
This indicator focuses on the implementation of water-related management plans and systems at the facility level, addressing both water quality and quantity. Facilities should have comprehensive plans and systems in place to manage water responsibly, with an emphasis on risk assessment, monitoring, and response strategies.
Indicator 3: Watershed-scale planning
Watershed Scale Planning broadens the scope of water management beyond the mine site, encouraging cooperation and engagement with other water users and communities of interest (COIs) within the watershed. This indicator promotes collaborative management of water resources.
Indicator 4: Water reporting and performance
The protocol advocates the establishment of water-related objectives or targets, with continuous monitoring and communication of performance, in order to inform decision-making and engagement with stakeholders. Reporting progress against these goals ensures transparent management and accountability.
Towards a sustainable future
For executives and industry experts, the Sustainable Water Management Protocol offers a strategic model for integrating sustainable water management at the heart of operations, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and shared value creation with communities and stakeholders.
By adopting the principles and practices outlined in the Water Management Protocol, the mining industry can take significant steps towards sustainability, demonstrating leadership in environmental stewardship and contributing to the well-being of ecosystems and communities.
