STRENGTHENS ITS SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENTS IN 2025
Rand Refinery’s 2025 Sustainability Report
highlights measurable progress in environmental
management,responsible sourcing, and
governance transparency.The report outlines
a series of initiatives designed to reduce
environmental impact while enhancing
accountability throughout its gold refining
and supply chain operations.
DRIVING ENVIRONMENTAL EFFICIENCY
Rand Refinery continues to advance its decarbonisation strategy through renewable energy investments. Its 4.5 MW solar farm has already reduced carbon emissions by roughly 8,500 tonnes annually, and the refinery plans to power all operations – excluding the smelter – entirely from renewable sources by 2027. Energy use has declined significantly, down by approximately 24 percent since 2021, with further reductions targeted by 2028. Water consumption has also fallen by more than 23 percent over the same period, supported by ongoing efficiency upgrades and water recycling initiatives. In waste management, Rand Refinery aims to halve annual waste volumes by 2027 through recycling and materials recovery programmes. Notably, the refinery has recorded zero reportable environmental incidents under South Africa’s National Environmental Management Act for more than a decade. The company has also introduced small-scale reforestation and environmental education projects, including tree-planting at local schools and efforts to protect Germiston Lake, adjacent to its operations.
STRENGTHENING GOVERNANCE
AND TRACEABILITY
Governance and product integrity form another core aspect of the refinery’s sustainability agenda. Rand Refinery continues to comply with the London Bullion Market Association’s Responsible Gold and Silver Guidance and aligns its governance practices with the OECD Due Diligence Guidance, UN Sustainable Development Goals, and King IV principles. Digital traceability systems – Randtrack™ and Randsure™ –
are being deployed to verify the ethical origin and authenticity of precious metal products. By early 2025, more than 1,700 provenance records had been recorded on blockchain-enabled platforms such as aXedras, reflecting a move toward transparent supply chain accountability.
“Just like gold, our true potential is often hidden beneath the surface, but with determination, hard work and willingness to be refined, we can emerge stronger, brighter and more valuable for the future.”
Dean Subramanian – Chief Financial Officer
PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
Although the report focuses primarily on environmental and governance performance, Rand Refinery also details ongoing community investment. Programmes supporting small jewellery manufacturers, youth learnerships, and inclusive employment continue to contribute to regional development. Initiatives
addressing gender-based violence and community wellness form part of its broader social responsibility agenda.
A FOCUSED SUSTAINABILITY OUTLOOK
Rand Refinery’s sustainability strategy demonstrates a shift from general corporate statements to measurable outcomes. The 2025 report highlights concrete targets—such as achieving renewable-powered operations and halving waste generation—supported by transparent data and time-bound goals. Through these efforts, Rand Refinery aims to strengthen its role within responsible gold refining, balancing operational efficiency with long-term environmental and social impact.
