Freeport's commitment to REMEDIATION

The subject of mine site remediation has taken on a large role in the operation methodology of the modern mining company. Globalization of the industry and the consolidation of the industry's operating units, i.e. companies, have resulted in companies that may have their business roots in one continent and operations spread over two or three other continents. With these types of global business nets being cast, mines have become accountable to the laws and morals of multiple countries and communities, not just to the shareholders or governments of the "home" country. The results of this modern business structure have included, among other things, the development of basic infrastructure in remote Third World countries - which is needed for the maintenance of an adequate work force - and site remediation plans that will leave the area in a better and more useful condition than it was prior to mining operations. This type of operation has developed the much-touted label of "sustainable development." Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold (Freeport) is one international company that has taken up the challenge of mining in the modern era and devoted resources to the application of sustainable development at its mining operations.