What is Sustainable Development?

“Development that meets the needs of the present generation without undermining the capacity of future generations to
meet their needs.”  1987 Brundtland Commission Report  - “Our Common Future”

At Kennecott Utah Copper, sustainable development is integral to our success as a fully integrated producer of copper cathode, molybdenum, gold, and silver, and to the social and financial investment our stakeholders and surrounding communities have made in us. By anchoring our business strategy and daily practices to align with the concept of sustainable development we are able to strengthen our operations and products and provide lasting benefits for our employees and stakeholders. These benefits include lower risks, improved efficiency and a superior reputation.

Our Mission “to maximize the long-term value of the resources under our stewardship,“ is supported by focused efforts in all four pillars of sustainable development: economic prosperity, social well-being, environmental stewardship, and governance, which includes the management systems and processes that enable us to accomplish our goals in these areas.

How can mining contribute to sustainable development?

Mining may seem inconsistent with the concept of sustainable development, given that we excavate ‘non-renewable’ resources. However, mining supplies the minerals and metals that are essential to our quality of life.  They make a significant contribution to the social and economic prosperity of our shareholders and the communities in which we operate.

At Kennecott Utah Copper, we believe mining makes a positive contribution to sustainable development provided we continue to:

• Look after our employees and stay safe
• Protect, and where possible, enhance the environment
• Support the communities surrounding our operations
• Ensure our products are safe and useful to society
• Remain profitable

Cleaning up the Land for Future Generations

Kennecott's voluntary efforts to cleanup and re-vegetate the land on and near the Oquirrh Mountains demonstrate Kennecott's environmental commitment.

Watch a one minute video about reclaiming former mining land.

Learn about Kennecott's economic impact

View 2009 sustainable development report

View past sustainable development reports