What Ethical Metalsmiths is Doing

We are educating metalsmiths about the problems with the current law and advocating for modern, sensible reform. Our supporters share the belief that ethical sourcing is the right thing to do morally — and it also makes good business sense.

We are working with a broad coalition of concerned organizations, including environmentalists, taxpayers, local governments in mining areas, hunters and fishermen, as well as jewelers, such as Tiffany & Co. and Ben Bridge Jeweler. Even the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Inspector General and the Government Accountability Office under the Bush Administration have stated that the law should be reformed.

Ethical Metalsmiths is taking the following actions in support of reform:

We are educating metalsmiths and others by providing information on our site and talking with jewelers and metalsmiths about current law and the improvements that are needed.

We are advocating for a law that not only punishes companies for polluting, but also creates economic incentives to encourage cleaner technologies in the industry. We would like to see companies rewarded for going beyond simple compliance.

We communicate regularly with other mining reform advocates to gather information and coordinate efforts.

Ethical Metalsmiths is also working with a wide variety of stakeholder groups to establish a market-based certification system. This is a voluntary, private sector initiative that does not depend on government regulation to take effect. Certification will allow buyers to distinguish responsible companies from irresponsible ones. We see a major opportunity to encourage best practices by creating private sector incentives and recognizing industry leaders. However, there is no substitute for a modern law with national standards to protect our lands, communities and taxpayers.