Cape Town: Copper 360 was recognized by this year’s Mining Indaba as a company leading the charge in Diversity, Equality and Inclusion at its Junior ESG Awards on Tuesday.

The award recognizes Copper 360’s already impressive resume of driving change in the resources sector, particularly when it comes to the employment of women and previously marginalized groups in the resources sector.

Chief executive Jan Nelson believes that themes like diversity, equality and inclusion should not be lip-serviced. He said: “Diversity, equality, and inclusion are not just buzzwords – they are essential components of a healthy and productive work environment. We believe that creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only the right thing to do, but it is also good for business. Companies that prioritize diversity, equality, and inclusion are more likely to attract top talent, increase productivity, and improve overall performance.”

The company believes that the mining and resources industry has the potential to play a significant role in promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace, and it is committed to creating an inclusive work environment that values and supports all employees.

Research has shown that diverse and inclusive work environments have a positive impact on employee morale, satisfaction, and engagement. They also lead to increased innovation and problem-solving and help to create a culture of respect and understanding. In the resource sector, where working conditions can be harsh and challenging, creating a supportive and inclusive work environment is especially important.

“We believe that promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion in the sector is not only the right thing to do, but it is also good for our business and our employees,” said Nelson. “By creating a work environment that values and supports all employees, we can improve morale, increase productivity, and help our employees to achieve their full potential.”

Earlier this year the company also announced that it’s developing a white paper to interrogate and document how further progress in terms of inclusion and accessibility could be accelerated.

Nelson said that the study will encompass a complete value chain evaluation. He said: “The importance of diversity and inclusion in our supply chain is as important and Copper 360 is committed to working with suppliers that share its values and are committed to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion.

About Copper 360:

Copper 360 is an emerging giant in the South African copper mining industry. With operations based in the Northern Cape, the company is focused on developing one of the largest and most promising copper districts in the world.

The company was formed in November 2022 following a reverse takeover of copper producer Big Tree Copper and copper miner SHiP Copper. It will list on the JSE in February 2023.

Copper 360 is currently producing 1200 tons of A-grade copper cathode per annum and is aiming to ramp production up to 7,700 tons of copper production within 24 months. The company is currently building 3 new copper floatation plants at a capital cost of ZAR280 million. Copper 360 will be one of the lowest all-in sustaining cost producers in the world as a result of the surface and shallow nature of the copper deposits. The company will also maintain a profit margin in excess of 60% as a result of the high copper grades of the deposits targeted.

Copper 360 is committed to responsible and sustainable mining practices. The company’s focus on environmental responsibility and social responsibility has allowed it to establish a strong reputation as a leader in the industry.

At Copper 360, the company values diversity, equality, and inclusion in all aspects of its operations. The company’s workforce is made up of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, and the company is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive.

As the mining and resources industry continues to evolve and change, Copper 360 is set to become one of the key players in the development of the South African and African copper market.