Whilst seeking to maximise the value of our assets, we aim to contribute to the social and economic development of the areas in which we operate and to minimise our environmental, social and socio-economic impact.
PDI view sustainability as a source of value creation and an integral part of our decision-making processes. Guided by insights gained during the ESIA process, PDI has adopted a materiality-based approach to managing sustainability priorities, emphasizing responsible project execution and meaningful stakeholder engagement. Our efforts have led to the development of comprehensive Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) along with a detailed framework to guide responsible management of operations.
Our approach is also informed by the World Gold Council’s Responsible Gold Mining Principles.
We are committed to engaging with our communities in a transparent and meaningful way. The Company is developing its social programs in partnership with communities, local authorities and third-party experts, to reflect and respond to community requirements as it progresses to the development of the Bankan Project.
“For the Bankan Project to be a success, knowing who our stakeholders are, what they require and how we need to collectively work together is essential. We have spent a significant amount of time this year mapping the project’s spheres of influence to establish clear channels of communication and build the right relationships. Having spent many years operating in and around the mining sector within Guinea – from time with the Ministry of Mines and Geology to working for in-country mining operators – I believe PDI and our host communities will collectively benefit from the Bankan Project.”
Marlyatou Baldé, Country Manager
Providing a safe working environment and maintaining people’s health, safety and well-being are of paramount importance to PDI. The Company is committed to providing a safe, secure and rewarding work environment, and to maintaining exceptional health and safety performance wherever it operates.
With a zero-harm objective, we treat safety as a collective responsibility shared by all employees and those working for the Company. The Company takes a proactive approach to health & safety, which includes safety toolbox meetings and regular training sessions covering areas such as incident and accident reporting, fire safety, first aid, and driving safety.
Respecting our colleagues and the partners that work with PDI is a fundamental part of the Company’s commitment to protecting employees, contractors and local communities.
PDI respects and follows recognised international human and labour rights and has a zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery. To that end, we support their rights to safe working conditions, equal treatment and fair reward for their efforts, and – implement mechanisms to maintain effective relationships with employees, communities and other stakeholders.
View our Human Resource Policy here
PDI is dedicated to fostering workplace diversity and values the advantages it brings at all levels of the Company, including within its board. A diverse workforce enhances PDI’s access to a wide pool of high-calibre talent, strengthens employee retention, and encourages a range of perspectives and ideas. Together, these elements enable PDI to harness the full potential of its talent.
View our Diversity Policy here
Environmental management and protection is a critical priority for PDI.
The Company recognises that mining activities have an impact on the environment, and it is committed to prevent, minimise, and mitigate negative environmental impacts where it operates.
At present, during exploration, the Company has a relatively low impact but appreciates that this will evolve over time as the Company progresses through the Project’s development phases. As the Project advances, the Company is committed to adopting and implementing policies and practices to avoid or mitigate impacts on the local communities and the environment.
The Company works closely with the relevant governmental agencies to ensure operations comply with national regulations, that environmental permits are maintained and that the Company pursues its commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
PDI recognises the significance of biodiversity and the Project’s location in the Peripheral Zone of the Upper Niger National Park. The Company is actively engaged in a systematic assessment of the local environment to develop suitable plans to improve the Park’s overall management.
“PDI has embarked on a definitive ESG path underscored by good international industry practice and regulatory compliance to ensure a sustainable project that integrates broad based stakeholder interests. The Bankan Project will exemplify this philosophy in all aspects of project development, execution and closure. The recent completion of the ESIA in April 2024 is a key milestone for the Company, and it highlights a range of mitigants and management plans to effectively manage risks, with importantly no fatal flaws identified.”
Andre Pieters, ESG Manager
