Trace enables market access for ASM materials and for companies to differentiate themselves through demonstrable responsible sourcing and supply chain transparency.  

Challenge 

Consumers and markets are increasingly demanding transparency, ethical sourcing, and responsible practices in mining activities, driven by rising regulatory pressure and sustainability standards. However, ASM operations struggle to meet these expectations. Key issues include the difficulty to trace the origins of minerals, leading to suspicions of illegal sourcing and unethical practices; actual contamination risks, as ASM operations often involve multiple stages where materials can be contaminated affecting the final product’s quality and marketability; and human errors in manual processes that lead to inaccuracies in tracking, reporting, and undermine regulatory compliance. 

Solution

The implementation of Trace’s digital product traceability solution provides a clear view of mineral sourcing from mine to export with accurate, real-time data on mining operations, functioning effectively even in offline or remote areas with minimal network access. This solution ensures transparency, and the ability to monitor and mitigate potential supply chain contamination and social and environmental risks. Trace’s customisability, ease of use, and user-friendly interface allows mining operators and staff to adapt it to different operational needs. It supports various minerals, supply chain characteristics, and reporting requirements, making it easy to record and monitor essential data while ensuring regulatory compliance and meeting industry standards. 

Impact

Trace brought transparency to mining operations where it is used, reducing the likelihood of contamination, corruption and illegal practices. Clear documentation and traceability made it harder for unethical practices to thrive, leading to cleaner, more responsible mining ecosystems. With verified origins showing responsible practices, ASM operators could access global markets, securing better prices and demand for their minerals – a direct benefit brought to ASM miners and communities. By showcasing transparency and improved due diligence efforts, utilising Trace helped ASM operators and mining firms to meet regulatory standards and enhance their credibility and market standing. 

Manu Nguéyanouba
Head of Better Mining