Certificate for a Better Future: TÜV NORD CERT Launches ESG Certification for Raw Materials Sector

06 February 2024: A major milestone in raw materials sector towards traceability, transparency and sustainability has been reached with launch of TÜV NORD CERA 4in1. The first holistic, globally applicable, four-step certification concept for mineral raw materials along the entire value chain up to the final product by TÜV NORD CERT, a subsidiary of TÜV NORD GROUP. This certification concept is a necessary step towards a truly sustainable transformation in the natural resources sector. As of today, the TÜV NORD CERA 4in1 Performance Standard (CPS) is first completed standard of CERA 4in1 available in the market.

The raw materials sector is challenged with an increasing number of tasks and legal regulations that are being implemented in Europe and around the globe to achieve transparency and sustainability. But these challenges also provide new opportunities that will change the raw materials sector worldwide. The EU-funded TÜV NORD CERA 4in1 certification system, with its four integrated standards, is perfectly equipped to help accomplish these tasks and fulfill the expectations of all stakeholders, including investors, shareholders, clients, business partners, governments, employees, and society itself.

What is CERA 4in1?
CERA 4in1 is the first and (so far) only certification concept that provides proof of ESG-compliance along the entire value chain: from exploration through extraction and processing up to the final products. The four-step solution with its integrated standards, the Readiness Standard (CRS), Performance Standard (CPS), the Chain of Custody Standard (CCS), and the Final Product Standard (CFS) has one big advantage: It targets all kind of minerals, everywhere in the world and is applicable to any size of company.

India’s Mining Industry: Balancing Growth Challenges, Sustainability Needs and Global Competitiveness
India’s mining industry, a vital contributor to economic growth and employment, faces challenges in attracting investments and addressing environmental and social concerns, including child labor, land degradation, and water pollution, among others. Despite its global standing in iron ore and coal production, the sector aims to surmount historical challenges through initiatives such as the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. The government’s goal is to elevate the industry’s GDP contribution from 1.75% to 2.5% by implementing reforms and doubling mineral production over the next seven years. Moreover, industry’s low foreign direct investment (FDI) in this sector underscores the need for transparent and internationally competitive policies to attract more investments.

To address challenges and foster sustainable practices, certifications like TÜV NORD CERA 4in1 will play a pivotal role. By incorporating environmental, social, and governance principles, CERA 4in1 ensures sustainable practices throughout the entire value chain up to the final product. This holistic approach not only tackles internal challenges but also enhances the global competitiveness of Indian mining operations. Certified operations signal a commitment to responsible practices, positioning them to access international markets that prioritize ethically sourced and environmentally conscious minerals.

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