1. Conduct a Comprehensive ESG Audit:

Baseline your current ESG practices using internal position statements and defined criteria from regulatory agencies. Assess and prioritize shortfalls based on the impact of non-compliance. This proactive approach will help you stay in step with regulatory changes and enhance your sustainability profile. Systems that can assess status and change are critical, as well as solutions that collect and report verifiable data through onsite or third parties. ElectraMet’s area of focus is sustainable metals removal and recovery. Specifically, copper recovery leading to circularity results in >6.2 kg of CO2 emission credit for every kg of copper recovered. Read more on projected copper shortages here.

Additional Actions from AuditBoard: Strengthen data collection and reporting to enable advanced data analytics and reporting. These tools ensure accuracy and transparency in ESG disclosures and help in meeting the SEC’s final ESG rules.

Engage Cross-Functional Teams: Collaborate across departments to align ESG goals with business objectives and ensure comprehensive compliance.

2. Optimize Wastewater Treatment:

Adopt advanced wastewater treatment systems to ensure discharge compliance and improve process efficiency. ElectraMet’s range of systems can help you achieve these goals, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. Many facilities in the US are using chemistry or single-use ion exchange to extract copper, which are very environmentally detrimental due to hauling and/or landfill application of the sludge. In some cases, RCRA codes of F006 or F009 are assigned and drive costs and environmental impact even higher. Several sites that claim “zero discharge” are processing waste with chemicals and shipping pressed sludge to landfills composed of chemicals, heavy metals, and 60-75% water. Innovations like ElectraMet exist to convert copper into revenue while avoiding sludge and secondary treatment to provide support for better reuse while eliminating waste impact.

3. Engage with Industry Stakeholders:

Collaborate with suppliers, customers, and industry groups to stay informed about regulatory changes and market trends. This network will provide valuable insights and support your compliance and sustainability efforts.

Additional Actions from AuditBoard: Enhance Stakeholder Engagement with communication through regular updates and reports on ESG progress and initiatives. This fosters transparency and accountability.

4. Invest in Training and Development:

Equip your team with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and implement sustainable practices. Continuous education will ensure your facility remains competitive and compliant.