The collaborative and outstanding work of SMI’s Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining (CSRM) has been recognised at the 2024 UQ Research and Translation Awards.
CSRM and Rio Tinto were awarded the UQ Partners in Research Excellence award for their 18-year partnership which aims to address the most critical and pressing social performance issues facing the global mining industry.
CSRM Director Professor Deanna Kemp said she was delighted to accept the award on behalf of the team.
She highlighted that through sustained levels of engagement, the partnership has contributed to building public knowledge.
“We have worked with Rio Tinto on research projects, professional development, and postgraduate activities relating to the social aspects of mining and sustainable development in the resources sector,” Professor Kemp said.
“The relationship has been robust, and the outcomes make a substantial impact on company personnel, CSRM researchers, local communities, and continue to build and inform public knowledge.”
Rio Tinto’s Head of Communities and Social Performance Melinda Buckland said the partnership with CSRM pushed the company in the direction it needed to go.
“CSRM has brought the social component - their highly skilled researchers push us in the direction we need to go in regard to improving our standards and performance,” she said.
“It’s applied research that actually helps us on the ground.”
CSRM and Rio Tinto have conducted 65 cutting-edge social projects in the past ten years alone. The partnership has produced leading practice social performance guides, case studies and tools that are still being used in Rio Tinto today.
The Partnership has also enabled CSRM to build academic capacity through publications, industry guidance and training for the public good, while maintaining an important level of academic independence.
