Vodafone Recognized for Leadership in Responsible Sourcing of Conflict Minerals

Vodafone Recognized for Leadership in Responsible Sourcing of Conflict Minerals

(IN BRIEF) Vodafone has been recognized as a “Responsible Minerals Front-Runner” by Development International for its exemplary efforts in ethical sourcing of conflict minerals (3TG: tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold). The company ensures that products such as routers, IoT devices, and automotive technology are free from minerals linked to conflict or human rights abuses. Through annual reviews, detailed due diligence, and supplier engagement, Vodafone traces the origins of minerals and enforces compliance with international standards. Its 2023 Responsible Minerals Report highlights these practices, alongside efforts in responsibly sourcing cobalt. Vodafone complies with EU and SEC regulations, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, sustainability, and ethical business operations.

(PRESS RELEASE) BERKSHIRE, 2-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Vodafone has been acknowledged as a “Responsible Minerals Front-Runner” by Development International for its strong adherence to conflict mineral sourcing standards set by the SEC and OECD. This recognition highlights Vodafone’s commitment to ethical, transparent, and sustainable supply chain practices, ensuring its products are free from minerals linked to conflict or human rights abuses.

Conflict minerals—tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold (collectively known as 3TG)—are critical components in electronics but can be associated with funding violence or forced labor. Vodafone ensures responsible sourcing for its products, including mobile phones, routers, IoT devices, and automotive technology. Through annual reviews, due diligence, and Reasonable Country of Origin Inquiries (RCOI), Vodafone traces the origins of 3TG used in its supply chain.

Commitment to Responsible Sourcing

Vodafone’s efforts focus on “In-Scope Products” where the company has influence over manufacturing, such as routers, set-top boxes, and IoT devices. Working closely with suppliers, Vodafone requires detailed reporting on 3TG usage, ensuring compliance with international standards.

Vodafone’s 2023 Responsible Minerals Report details its due diligence framework and outlines actions to mitigate risks in its supply chain. The company also extends its approach to cobalt, commonly used in lithium-ion batteries, further demonstrating its dedication to sustainable practices.

Transparency and Compliance

Vodafone complies with the EU’s Conflict Minerals Regulation and the SEC’s disclosure requirements for country-of-origin reporting. By addressing non-compliance within its supply chain and escalating issues as needed, Vodafone ensures alignment with the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) standards.

Leadership and Impact

Development International’s analysis praised Vodafone for submitting detailed reports and aligning with OECD’s five-step framework for conflict minerals reporting. This proactive approach not only strengthens Vodafone’s position as an industry leader in responsible sourcing but also underscores its commitment to ethical business practices and global sustainability goals.

As regulatory frameworks like the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive advance, Vodafone remains dedicated to transparency, fostering trust, and ensuring that the products it offers meet the highest ethical standards.

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SOURCE: Vodafone Group