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Wednesday, 28th June 2006 (2094 views)

The gold mining industry has begun talks with environmentalists and other activists about the possibility of a "green" code for the production of the precious metal, the Financial Times reports.

Critics of the gold industry have long claimed that mining companies pollute the environment and don't do enough to help local communities.

The industry in turn maintains that it adheres to environmental laws and injects money into local economies, as well as providing much-needed jobs.

Now, in talks conducted by the International Council for Mining and Metals, the two sides have discussed the possibility of certifying gold mines so that jewellers can be sure they are sourcing the yellow metal from "green" mines.

"We are keen to work with the non-government organisations (NGOs) to find a solution to these issues and if we come up with an agreement it is going to be better for everybody," said Newmont Mining's Pierre Lassonde.

"We will have gold that is certified by the NGOs and they will be happy that we are working to standards that they have helped set."

 

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