United Nations Environment Programme
Switzerland
The EMG, in collaboration with UNEP and with support from the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), convened a Nexus Dialogue on Mineral Resource Governance on 17 November 2020 to explore opportunities for strengthening the sustainable and responsible management of mineral resources.
Organized in support of the implementation of UN Environment Assembly Resolution 4/19 on Mineral Resource Governance, the dialogue brought together representatives from UN entities, governments, international organizations and other stakeholders to examine governance challenges and opportunities across mineral value chains. Discussions built on regional and global consultations conducted by UNEP, as well as existing research and assessments of sustainable mineral resource management.
The dialogue focused on identifying good practices, addressing knowledge and capacity gaps, and strengthening transparency, due diligence and sustainability throughout mineral extraction and processing. Particular attention was given to the growing demand for minerals essential to low-carbon technologies and the need to reconcile resource extraction with environmental protection and sustainable development objectives.
The dialogue aimed to strengthen cooperation across the UN system and beyond, identify opportunities for coordinated action, and contribute recommendations to advance the implementation of UNEA Resolution 4/19 and inform discussions at UNEA-5.