Between July 7 and 11, 2025, the independent auditing firm ERM CVS will conduct an IRMA follow-up audit of SQM Salar SpA's lithium operations in the Salar de Atacama. This time, the assessment will seek to verify that SQM maintains the IRMA 75 performance level achieved in 2023. It will also include confidential interviews with workers, communities, and members of Indigenous communities.
SQM invites interested parties to participate and submit their comments until July 11. The audit team will consider these opinions in the subsequent public report.
What is IRMA and why is it important in lithium mining?
IRMA (Initiative for Responsible Mining) is an international standard that improves mining practices in terms of social, environmental, and economic issues. It was developed with the participation of social organizations, companies, unions, communities, and experts to ensure a more comprehensive and balanced assessment.
This model analyzes more than 20 key topics, such as respect for human rights, environmental protection, community relations, water management, biodiversity, and working conditions. Mining operations can achieve different levels of compliance: IRMA 50, 75, or 100, depending on their performance.
SQM's commitment to responsible mining
In 2023, SQM became the first company in South America to obtain IRMA 75 certification for a lithium operation. This milestone not only sets a precedent in the industry but also reflects the company's ongoing commitment to transparency, sustainability, and respect for the environment, especially in a sensitive area like the Atacama Salt Flat.
Thus, the 2025 audit offers a new opportunity to evaluate and continue improving. For SQM, being part of IRMA strengthens trust with communities, highlights its progress, and maintains an open dialogue on the challenges facing the lithium industry.
