Sustainability

University updates Conflict Minerals Policy to recognise wider scope of risks

In October 2017, the Social Responsibility and Sustainability Committee approved an updated version of the University’s Conflict Minerals Policy.

Phone, policy, lab equipment, vehicle and building graphic

The updated policy recognises that there is a risk of conflict minerals not only in electronics goods but in other areas, such as construction and vehicles. While most campaigns about conflict minerals focus on information and communication technology, conflict minerals are found in a much wider range of commodities.

Conflict minerals are materials such as tin, tungsten, tantalum and gold, among others, that are mined in conflict zones and used by armed groups to fund violence and wars. It is difficult to trace where the minerals in final products have come from because they often pass through a complex chain of smugglers, smelters and factories across the world to reach the end user.

The University committed to taking action on conflict minerals through its Conflict Minerals Policy, published in February 2016. This means questions and requirements about conflict minerals are prioritised during the procurement process, and awareness-raising activities are undertaken through events, online campaigns, research and teaching.

 

Find out more about conflict minerals and our work in this area