Contribution of gold to society: 1. The gold industry has made a meaningful contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.
The WGC has long believed that responsible gold mining supports the sustained socio-economic development of the countries and communities in which gold mining operations are conducted through its contribution to employment, tax revenue and investment in local communities.
Gold itself also plays a key role in supporting social needs and is considered important in global culture.
It is well understood and recognized as a source of financial security and is essential for numerous technology and healthcare applications.
2. Gold can promote social and economic development.
Gold mining is a major economic driver for many countries around the world.
Well-managed, transparent and responsible resource extraction can be a major contributor to economic growth by creating jobs and business opportunities for local people.
In addition to direct and indirect jobs, gold mining generates foreign direct investment and tax revenue for countries.
Gold mining companies often operate in remote areas, investing in infrastructure and utilities.
In addition to meeting the needs of the mine, these improvements to roads, water and power supplies are a long-term benefit to businesses and communities across the region, outlasting the production life of the mine.
As gold miners decarbonize their energy, they can also bring cleaner electricity to local communities, and in some places will be key players in bringing low-carbon electricity to the region, with potential development benefits well beyond the mines.
Gold miners often work with host governments, communities and ngos in their countries to determine how best to support broader social and economic development.
Gold mining companies also have ethical and business incentives to improve health and education in the communities in which they operate.
Many companies invest in social infrastructure, including schools, colleges and health centres, to improve opportunities and wellbeing for local people.
In addition, many miners provide healthcare services to their employees and surrounding communities — from COVID-19 relief to malaria response.
Responsible gold mining contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.