Technical session 2 – ESG Transformation and the “Social Licence” in Kazakhstan’s Mining Sector
Format: Presentations and panel discussion organised in partnership with IMC Montan
Sustainable development is becoming an integral part of the strategy of Kazakhstan’s mining sector, which is entering a new phase of growth. Over the past five years, private investment in solid mineral exploration has increased 2.5 times, rising from KZT 33.9 billion to KZT 82 billion. At the same time, trends across the metals sector demonstrate a tangible expansion of both the mineral resource base and production. Against this backdrop, ESG factors and the social licence to operate are emerging as essential and interconnected pillars supporting sustainable growth: the former establishes an institutional framework for responsibility and risk management, while the latter reflects the extent to which sectoral growth is genuinely accepted by society, employees, and local communities.
During the session, we will examine how international standards for assessing social and environmental commitments are being adapted to national realities. Experts from IMC Montan will present a methodology linking environmental and social risks with a company’s financial performance. The discussion will also cover the specific features of assessment and assurance mechanisms for environmental and social obligations, alongside practical case studies demonstrating the implementation of selected ESG strategy objectives at operational sites.
Moderator
Мaria Sokolova
Environment Consultant, Manager of Environmental Assessment Business Sector
IMC Montan
Presentations:
IMC approaches to financial assessment of environmental and social risks
Elena Burdina
Environmental Consultant, environment assessment, audit, health management, health and safety expert
IMC Montan
Social license in the context of ESG: practical recommendations
Sergey Sidorkin
Social and Economic Policies
IMC Montan
Integration of international assessment practices in the area of social and environmental obligations
Yerbulan Belgibekov
Regional Manager
ES Sustainability
From mine to market: Top 5 critical ESG requirements for critical minerals in 2026
Victor Davydov
Director for Environmental and Social Consulting
ENSOR Management Consultants
Development of the mining and metallurgy industry. State policy on industrial waste and recyclable materials management. Environmental reform.
Gulvira Shaimerdenova
Director of Government Relations Department
Qarmet
