Every day, infinitely recyclable aluminum makes industries from transportation to packaging more environmentally friendly. But if I had to pick our most important sustainability initiative this year it is the opening of our new bauxite mine in the Amazonia region of Brazil. It has been hailed by Conservation International for “creating a new model” for projects and sustainable development in this sensitive area. Our commitment is simple. We will leave this precious area in as good — if not better — condition than when we first arrived. We have a world-class mining operation and a world-class environmental program to mitigate impacts and world-class social programs such as building new hospitals and schools. And along the way, we are making Alcoa a stronger company.
Going green is no longer just a marketing opportunity but a responsibility. When we developed Marriott International’s Spirit to Preserve™ environmental strategy, we realized that we were in a unique position to influence change, given our scale. Spirit to Preserve™ is a strategy that calls for preservation; reduction of water use, waste and energy consumption; greening our supply chain; building greener hotels; and engaging our employees and guests to take action. Through the program, guests can choose to offset the carbon generated during their stay for as little as $1 per day. With 3,200 managed and franchised hotels globally, we hope we can lead by example.
In March 2009, Newmont released the results of an independent Community Relationships Review. An independent study team and an advisory panel of leading global sustainability experts and advocates shaped and implemented its scope, methodology and direction. The advisory panel’s report called the review “an unprecedented undertaking within the mining sector.” I believe the review’s lessons will reinforce our industry-leading practices while establishing clear benchmarks for success in areas where we should improve. This will help Newmont continue to create sustainable value and opportunity for our shareholders, employees and host communities.
We are excited to have completed Mosaic’s first thorough internal sustainability assessment and issued a public report on our progress. Following the rigorous standards of the Global Reporting Initiative — a network of experts who offer guidance on how organizations can disclose their sustainability performance — this inaugural report focuses on our economic development, agriculture and conservation, and environmental stewardship. We are proud of our success in reducing emissions, providing essential resources for farmers around the world, reclaiming land and protecting threatened species. But this is only the beginning as we set new goals for years to come.
Agrium is a leader in the development of best management practices and the implementation of stewardship systems such as the Global “4R” Nutrient Stewardship Framework. Launched in 2009, this framework supports growers’ efforts to apply the right nutrients, at the right rate, time and place, to support improved environmental, economic and social performance. Agrium’s product development program resulted in the first controlled-release product line for broad-based agricultural use. The products match nutrient release to crop demand, allowing growers to increase yield while reducing environmental losses.