OUR MISSIONS

29 mineral groups, 115 mining sites⁽¹⁾ and more than 20 year’s average reserves ⁽²⁾: Imerys is the only industrial minerals processor with such a large, diverse and geographically balanced set of reserves. These raw materials may be rare or even unique, giving Imerys a competitive edge.


Great geological expertise
Diverse needs and applications call for a wide range of mineral types and grades. From the prospecting phase, Imerys assesses projects’ profitability factors through an integrated approach. Geological models are created and an operating plan and development options defined using state-of-the-art simulation tools. The expertise of the Group’s geologists and mining engineers is essential in building economic models for capital projects.

Those specialists can be mobilized worldwide. This gives Imerys the skills needed to identify and acquire the most advantageous deposits, and operate and develop them in profitable long-term conditions.

Imerys’ teams share their know-how through a network of approximately 100 geologists, facilitated and supported by a small central team of around 10 people. In addition to their exploration and operating responsibilities, they draw up an efficient, consistent survey of available reserves and resources, based on the most stringent regulatory procedures and standards. The results are audited both internally and externally and the Executive Committee receives regular reports on the audits’ findings.


A responsible approach
Safety for personnel and neighbors, the site’s future restoration and environmental costs are crucial factors. They are factored into projects from the planning stage and weigh in the choice of operating methods to ensure that impact on the natural environment is kept to a minimum. Beyond local regulatory obligations, the Group strives to operate and remediate its sites sustainably and in accordance with communities’ best interests. This demanding, responsible approach is the rule in every country. It fosters the smooth integration of activities into their host environment and makes new operating permits easier to obtain.


At least 20 years of resources
To secure its long-term growth, Imerys aims for constant access to an average of 20 years’ reserves for all its minerals. To achieve this, the Group constantly works on prospecting, optimizing the deposits in its portfolio and acquiring new resources.

In 2009, Imerys acquired a bauxitic kaolin reserve in North America. This new asset extends the lifespan of existing reserves in the zone, which are intended for refractory mineral production. Imerys also enhanced knowledge of its deposits by continuing its geological activities. Every year the Group “proves” additional reserves and resources and adds tonnage to its portfolio that is at least equivalent to consumption.