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The Turkish Miners Association (TMD) is preparing to sign a cooperation protocol with the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) in Ankara on Monday, marking the start of efforts to bring international sustainability standards into Türkiye’s mining sector.
The agreement will introduce the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) program, which has been applied in Canada for more than 15 years and is also in use in countries such as Australia, Finland, and Norway.
The TSM program is a performance-based management system designed to strengthen environmental and social practices in the mining industry. It emphasizes effective risk management, constructive relations with local communities, and transparent reporting.
More than 200 mining companies in 12 countries currently implement the program. In Türkiye, it will be introduced gradually once the protocol is signed.
Participating companies will be evaluated annually through independent audits covering areas such as environmental protection, occupational health and safety, crisis management, water and waste management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation.
Performance ratings will range from "C" to "AAA," with companies that meet the standards becoming eligible for certification.
TMD Chairman Mehmet Yilmaz described the forthcoming protocol as a milestone for the sector. "By cooperating with MAC, we are signing a protocol that will ensure international standards are applied in Türkiye. Although this will be a long-term process, it is a historic step for the future of the industry," he told Türkiye daily.
He added that Türkiye would benefit from Canada’s long experience with the program. "They have applied these standards for around 15 to 16 years, and we are receiving support to adapt them here. Companies that successfully complete this process will be certified," Yilmaz said.
By joining TSM, Türkiye’s mining sector is expected to gain improved access to international financing, attract new investment, and enhance its credibility with the public.
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