The  Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Conference to be organized by Greater Sudbury at Holiday Inn from 8^th to 11^th October respectively. The high-profile event, set to bring together approximately 300 delegates-from all walks of life-and that is indeed an understatement-from the private and public sectors, civil society, academia, and Indigenous groups-will focus on sustainable mining practices.

With mounting demand for minerals, especially in electric vehicle and technology sectors, this conference is all about balancing economic benefits to nearby communities with the protection of the environment. One of the huge questions that will be broached here is whether mining for essential minerals is simultaneously compatible with safeguarding the interests of local community, and indeed often Indigenous peoples.

International speakers shall present new ideas and strategies for outlining a new vision on mineral development at the conference. Regional growth and environmental safeguards will both be part of the themes. Participants are encouraged to participate in discussions on best practices, potentially developing a model on the stakeholder engagement that can stretch beyond traditional ESG standards.

Two important themes guide these discussions:

1. Partnership for Sustainable Mining Community Development This session addresses how mining organizations can employ ESG strategies to enhance community life as more is expected of them and regulatory requirements increase. The role of indigenous communities, which generally have a significant stake in mining-affected areas, would prove crucial in decision-making processes. Focus areas presented during the session included mainstreaming of ESG initiatives with indigenous-led activities and enhancing learning opportunities within mining communities.
2. Future-Proofing Regional Mineral Supply for the Energy Transition This theme looks into how increasing demand can be balanced with sustainable mining supply. The topics will cover the roles of local government and community in achieving environmental protection and support for sustainable business practice, efforts in the circular economy, and resilient mining economies.

The very promises of the conference include dialogues of critical significance in identifying pathways to sustainable mineral development that may benefit communities and the environment.