Water Usage and Community Relations in Gold Mining ESG Focus

Robert Gultig

30 December 2025

Water Usage and Community Relations in Gold Mining ESG Focus

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Written by Robert Gultig

30 December 2025

Introduction:

Water usage and community relations in gold mining have become key focuses in the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria for many businesses in the industry. With increasing pressure to operate sustainably and responsibly, companies are looking for ways to minimize their water usage and improve relationships with local communities. According to the World Gold Council, the global gold production reached 3,531 metric tons in 2020, with an estimated market value of $229.4 billion.

Top 20 Water Usage and Community Relations in Gold Mining:

1. Newmont Corporation
Newmont is one of the largest gold mining companies in the world, with operations in multiple countries. The company has been recognized for its efforts to reduce water usage and engage with local communities through various sustainability initiatives.

2. Barrick Gold Corporation
Barrick Gold is another major player in the gold mining industry, known for its focus on responsible mining practices. The company has implemented water recycling programs and community development projects in its mining operations.

3. AngloGold Ashanti
AngloGold Ashanti is a leading gold producer with operations in Africa, the Americas, and Australia. The company has made significant investments in water management and community relations to ensure sustainable mining practices.

4. Kinross Gold Corporation
Kinross Gold is a Canadian-based gold mining company with operations in the United States, Brazil, Russia, and West Africa. The company has implemented innovative water conservation measures and community engagement programs in its mining operations.

5. Gold Fields Limited
Gold Fields is a South African gold mining company with operations in Australia, Ghana, Peru, and South Africa. The company has a strong focus on water stewardship and community development, earning recognition for its sustainability efforts.

6. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited
Agnico Eagle is a Canadian gold mining company with operations in Canada, Finland, and Mexico. The company has implemented water recycling technologies and community consultation processes to enhance its environmental and social performance.

7. Newcrest Mining Limited
Newcrest Mining is an Australian gold mining company with operations in Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Canada. The company has invested in water efficiency projects and community engagement initiatives to support its sustainable mining practices.

8. Polyus Gold International Limited
Polyus Gold is the largest gold producer in Russia and one of the top gold mining companies globally. The company has implemented water management programs and community development projects to minimize its environmental impact and foster positive relationships with local communities.

9. Northern Star Resources Limited
Northern Star Resources is an Australian-based gold mining company with operations in Australia and North America. The company has focused on water conservation measures and community partnerships to achieve sustainable mining outcomes.

10. Evolution Mining Limited
Evolution Mining is a leading gold producer in Australia, with operations in Australia and Canada. The company has adopted best practices in water management and community engagement to ensure responsible mining practices.

11. Goldcorp Inc.
Goldcorp was a major gold mining company acquired by Newmont in 2019. The company had a strong reputation for its water stewardship and community development efforts, setting industry standards for responsible mining practices.

12. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited
Harmony Gold is a South African gold mining company with operations in South Africa and Papua New Guinea. The company has prioritized water conservation and community relations in its mining operations, contributing to its sustainability performance.

13. IAMGOLD Corporation
IAMGOLD is a Canadian gold mining company with operations in Canada, West Africa, and South America. The company has implemented water recycling initiatives and community investment programs to support its ESG commitments.

14. Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd.
Kirkland Lake Gold is a Canadian gold mining company with operations in Canada and Australia. The company has focused on water efficiency measures and stakeholder engagement to enhance its environmental and social performance.

15. Yamana Gold Inc.
Yamana Gold is a Canadian-based gold producer with operations in Canada, Brazil, Chile, and Argentina. The company has made significant investments in water management practices and community development projects to support its sustainability goals.

16. OceanaGold Corporation
OceanaGold is a multinational gold mining company with operations in New Zealand, the Philippines, and the United States. The company has implemented water conservation initiatives and community support programs to ensure responsible mining practices.

17. Eldorado Gold Corporation
Eldorado Gold is a Canadian gold mining company with operations in Greece, Turkey, and Canada. The company has prioritized water stewardship and community engagement in its mining activities, contributing to its sustainable performance.

18. Alacer Gold Corp.
Alacer Gold is an Australian-based gold mining company with operations in Turkey. The company has implemented water recycling technologies and community development projects to support its ESG commitments.

19. B2Gold Corp.
B2Gold is a Canadian gold mining company with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines, and Nicaragua. The company has focused on water management strategies and community partnerships to achieve sustainable mining outcomes.

20. Shandong Gold Group
Shandong Gold is a Chinese state-owned gold mining company with operations in China and overseas. The company has made efforts to improve its water usage efficiency and community relations as part of its sustainability initiatives.

Insights:

The gold mining industry’s focus on water usage and community relations is expected to continue growing as companies strive to meet ESG criteria and improve their sustainability performance. According to the Responsible Mining Foundation, water scarcity is a significant challenge for the mining sector, highlighting the importance of responsible water management practices. Companies that prioritize water conservation and engage with local communities are likely to enhance their reputation and secure their social license to operate in the long term. As investors and stakeholders increasingly demand transparency and accountability, gold mining companies will need to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices to maintain their competitiveness in the market.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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