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Mining major reports on risk levels, safe closures, and challenges in Mali as part of global push for transparency in tailings management
Barrick Mining Corporation has fulfilled its commitment to publish detailed information on its tailings storage facilities (TSFs), in line with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), a global benchmark introduced to enhance safety, transparency, and accountability in tailings management following the 2019 Brumadinho dam disaster in Brazil.
By Ryan Chigoche
The release includes site-specific data for 65 TSFs across Barrick’s global operations, reflecting the company’s broader push toward responsible environmental stewardship. Barrick played an active role in the formulation of the GISTM and, as a result, is already fully aligned with the standard’s rigorous requirements.
Transparent disclosure of tailings storage facilities is critical in an era where mining companies face growing scrutiny over environmental and social impacts. Poorly managed TSFs have historically led to catastrophic failures, with severe consequences for communities, ecosystems, and corporate reputations.
By releasing detailed site-level information in line with international standards, Barrick not only strengthens investor and public confidence but also sets a benchmark for industry accountability. This proactive approach helps ensure that risks are identified, monitored, and mitigated, ultimately protecting both people and the environment.
According to Barrick’s disclosure, five of Barrick’s TSFs are classified as ‘extreme’ risk and 12 as ‘very high’ risk. Despite these risk ratings, all facilities meet the GISTM’s operational and safety thresholds.
This risk classification is based on the potential consequences of failure, not the likelihood, underscoring the company’s commitment to responsible management even in higher-risk environments.
In contrast, 13 of the TSFs have already reached ‘safe closure’ status—a designation for facilities that no longer require active monitoring under GISTM guidelines.
These facilities are therefore exempt from the disclosure requirements. Additionally, one TSF is operated by a joint venture partner and does not fall under Barrick’s direct reporting obligations.
However, the company noted one exception: the Loulo-Gounkoto TSF in Mali. Due to an ongoing dispute with the Malian government, Barrick has lost access to the facility after the mine was placed under provisional administration. As a result, the company has been unable to verify its compliance with the GISTM at that site.
Despite this challenge, Barrick reaffirmed its broader commitment to responsible tailings management. President and CEO Mark Bristow said the company is continually working to reduce long-term environmental and human health risks by transitioning inactive TSFs into safe closure.
As part of this initiative, Barrick aims to move five additional TSFs into safe closure status by next year. Bristow emphasises that this process involves not only physical decommissioning but also long-term engagement with local communities, conservation of key biodiversity features, and respect for cultural heritage.
“The safe closure of these facilities requires stakeholders to be engaged, key biodiversity features to be conserved, and cultural values to be protected,” Bristow said.
