The Hidden Costs of Conventional Gold Mining

Beneath the luster of conventional gold lies a story of environmental destruction and social injustice. Traditional mining practices often involve toxic mercury, contaminating water sources and endangering ecosystems and communities. Miners frequently endure unsafe working conditions, exposure to hazardous substances, and unfair wages. Additionally, the conventional gold supply chain has been linked to the financing of conflict groups. It’s a sobering truth that the gold we revere may come at a great human and ecological cost.

Why Do We Use Fairtrade Gold Instead of Recycled Gold?

While recycled gold is often seen as a sustainable alternative to newly mined gold (and the silver mined alongside it), it does not address the root issues of environmental and social harm in the mining industry. The existing global supply of gold above ground (both newly mined and recycled) is insufficient to meet demand, recycling gold simply does not slow the expansion of mining operations.

Additionally, this claim overlooks the reality that gold, due to its value, is rarely thrown away. It is only fairly recently, with the rise of electronic waste containing gold and silver, that either of these precious metals have been destined for the landfill. Gold “recycling” from scrap jewellery etc. is not a great new sustainability innovation, it’s just common sense and without transparency in sourcing, recycled gold may come from dubious or unethical origins. Recent studies indicate that most gold labelled as recycled , is in fact, newly mined gold - cleverly rebranded as it moves through the supply chain. This includes gold mined in conflict regions which is given a clean ethical slate by the false assurances of a “recycled’ label. To drive true sustainability in the industry, a focus on transparent supply chains and championing responsible mining practices is essential.

Fairmined: Transforming Artisanal Mining

Fairmined certified mines stand as shining examples of how mining communities can resist inequality, extractivism, colonial plunder and environmental destruction.

Key Aspects of Fairmined Gold and Silver

Ethical Practices: Miners receive fair pay and work under safe, dignified conditions. Fairmined Certified cooperatives are prohibited from supporting armed groups, human trafficking and exploitative child or forced labour. Fostering equitable trade practices alleviates poverty and plays a vital role in the sustainable development of whole communities.

Community Support: Beyond fair wages for their labour, miners also receive an additional payment per gram of gold or silver known as the Fairmined Premium. This money directly benefits mining communities by funding essential development initiatives such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements.

Environmental Responsibility: Mining operations minimize environmental impact through reforestation, land restoration, and responsible waste management. Certified mines are required to limit the use of toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide. Notably, the two mines AuTerra sources gold and silver from have eliminated mercury entirely from their processes.

Traceability and Transparency: The origin of every gram of Fairmined gold and silver is fully traceable, from the mine to the finished jewellery piece, providing consumers with confidence that their purchase supports responsible practices. Fairmined is more than just a label, it is backed by an independent and rigorous third-party certification system, including annual compliance checks at all levels- miners, refiners and jewellers.

Top to Bottom, left to right: Iquira mine is deep in the mountains of Colombia. Crops, nature and mining can coexist. Miner coming up from underground at Chede Mine, Colombia. A nugget of freshly mined Fairmined gold.

The Fairmined Impact

Fairmined gold and silver represent more than just a product; it is a movement towards a more equitable precious metals market. It ensures that mining operations not only meet the highest environmental standards, preserving biodiversity and safeguarding ecosystems but also transform the lives of those involved. Fairmined standards directly combat the harsh realities faced by millions of artisanal miners, creating pathways to safer, fairer, and more sustainable livelihoods. By choosing Fairmined your jewellery not only reflects your own story but also a commitment to compassion, responsibility, and a more sustainable, hopeful future.