What is the Conflict Minerals Reporting Template

The use of conflict minerals in manufacturing processes has been a major concern in recent years, to improve supply chain transparency the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) developed CMRT that helps businesses identify and disclose the use of conflict minerals in their supply chains. The template includes questions about the origin of minerals, the smelters and refiners used in the supply chain, and the due diligence measures taken by businesses to ensure responsible sourcing practices.

The CMRT has been created to align with the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas, which offers comprehensive suggestions to aid businesses in upholding human rights and preventing conflict-related issues stemming from their mineral procurement policies and actions. The guidance is intended for companies that may be acquiring minerals or metals from regions that are considered high-risk or affected by conflict. Its reach is global and applicable to all 3TG minerals in the supply chains.

Why is the CMRT important and what is the use of CMRT?

The CMRT is important for several reasons. First, it helps businesses identify and disclose the use of conflict minerals in their supply chains, which is essential for transparency and accountability. Second, it helps businesses comply with regulations related to conflict minerals reporting requirements, such as the Dodd-Frank Conflict Minerals Act & EU Conflict Minerals. Third, it promotes responsible sourcing practices, which can have a positive impact on communities and the environment.

The Conflict Minerals Reporting Template (CMRT) is a critical tool utilized across all industries to ensure compliance with conflict minerals regulations. Its primary purpose is to assist companies in collecting and managing supplier data concerning tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold (3TG) within their supply chains. Companies rely on the CMRT to fulfill conflict minerals reporting requirements and transparently disclose sourcing information to both investors and customers.

The CMRT also simplifies the exchange of supply chain data between companies and their suppliers, detailing the country of origin for the minerals and the smelters and refiners used. Additionally, it supports the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) by identifying new smelters and refiners for potential audits under the RMI’s Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP).

Step-by-Step Guide on how to fill out the CMRT form

1. Download the CMRT: Start by downloading the CMRT template from the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) website or the relevant organization that requires your compliance. Ensure you have the latest version of the template.

2. Gather Basic Information: Gather basic information about your company, including your company name, contact information, and the reporting year.

3. Supplier Identification: List all the suppliers in your supply chain who are involved in the use of 3TG minerals. Include their names, addresses, and contact information.

4. Determine Product Scope: Clearly define the products within the scope of your reporting. Specify the product categories and models.

5. Request Smelter and Refiner Information: For each supplier listed, request information about the smelters and refiners used in their supply chain. This includes the smelter/refiner's name, location, and description of the materials processed.

6. Due Diligence Information: Ask suppliers to provide information on their due diligence measures, which are steps taken to ensure the responsible sourcing of minerals. This includes details on conflict minerals policy, supplier surveys, and supply chain audits.

7. Conflict Minerals Country of Origin: Request information on the countries of origin of the 3TG minerals used in the products. Suppliers should identify the smelters and refiners associated with the minerals and their countries of origin.

8. Data for Smelters and Refiners: For each smelter and refiner identified, request details about their certification status, the name of the 3TG mineral processed, and its country of origin.

9. DRC Conflict-Free Status: Suppliers should confirm whether the minerals used in their products are "DRC conflict-free" or not, based on the due diligence efforts and information gathered.

10. Completed CMRT Submissions: Ensure that suppliers complete the CMRT accurately and thoroughly, providing all requested information. It's essential to encourage open and transparent communication with your suppliers.

11. Documentation and Verification: Request that suppliers provide documentation supporting the information provided in the CMRT. Verification of the data, where possible, can add credibility to the report.

12. Review and Validation: Review the CMRT submissions from your suppliers to ensure accuracy and consistency. Resolve any discrepancies or inconsistencies with your suppliers.

13. Report Compilation: Compile all the completed CMRTs and related information into a comprehensive report that covers your entire supply chain.

14. Summarize Findings: Summarize your findings, highlighting any issues or risks related to conflict minerals sourcing, and report on the actions you plan to take to mitigate these risks.

15. Reporting Obligations: If required by regulations or stakeholders, submit your CMRT report to the relevant authorities, customers, or the public.

Here is how CMRT data flows within different stakeholders in the supply chain:

How can Acquis help with CMRT reporting requirements?

• Collect and store data related to the use of conflict minerals in the supply chain, making it easier to complete the CMRT reporting process.
• Help businesses identify potential smelter risks in their supply chains, such as the geographic origin of the minerals and the types of suppliers you work with.
• Generate consolidated CMRT reports with a click of a button, saving time and effort for businesses.
• Scale with the business, allowing companies to manage their supply chains more efficiently for various responsible sourcing requirements such as Extended Minerals (EMRT), Slavery & Trafficking Risk (STRT) reporting.
• Provide businesses with a comprehensive overview of their supply chains, allowing you to make informed decisions about your operations.

In conclusion, the use of conflict minerals in manufacturing processes is a major concern. Acquis conflict mineral software and reporting services can help you with CMRT reporting by collecting and storing data, identifying potential smelter risks, generating consolidated CMRT reports automatically, and scaling your business. By using cumulative CMRT data points, the software can provide you with a comprehensive overview of your supply chains, allowing you to make informed decisions in purchasing operations.

Ready to take the first step towards responsible sourcing and greater supply chain transparency? Contact us today.