How the Natural Diamond Industry Reduces Its Carbon Footprint and Protects Biodiversity
The natural diamond industry has set out on its journey to decarbonize in line with global climate targets. As part of their carbon reduction strategies, natural diamond companies are developing renewable energy projects, often in developing countries where it is harder to source energy, as well as engaging in carbon offsetting projects and investing in programs to sequester carbon.
- Companies like De Beers Group are committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2030, and Rio Tinto has set the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Over 99% of waste produced by large diamond producers is rock, which is disposed of on-site and eventually reclaimed as part of the landscape during the mine closure and rehabilitation.
- 84% of the water used in diamond recovery is recycled.
- NDC members protect considerably more land than they use—in 2021, the largest diamond producers protected an area of land equivalent to the size of New York City, Washington, Chicago, and Las Vegas combined.
- In addition numerous leading organizations from the diamond value chain are always working to address the most pressing needs of their local communities as well as reduce their environmental footprint.
- The natural diamond industry is committed to environmental stewardship in diamond mining regions. Through comprehensive environmental management plans, diamond mining companies prioritize land protection during and after mining operations.
- Key initiatives include waste reduction, water conservation, and biodiversity protection. Diamond mining operations also undertake land reclamation projects to restore the environment once a mine closes, ensuring that ecosystems are rehabilitated for future generations.
- Beyond land reclamation, the natural diamond industry focuses on improving mining techniques to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions. In the sub-Arctic region of the Northwest Territories, the Diavik diamond mine is a leader in cold climate rentable technology.
- Companies collaborate with local governments and communities to ensure compliance with national and international environmental regulations and sustainable mining standards. These efforts are part of the industry’s commitment to building a sustainable diamond supply chain that supports local communities and promotes global environmental conservation.
Through continuous innovation and adherence to best practices, the diamond industry works to protect the environment while responsibly sourcing one of nature’s most precious resources.
