Conflict Minerals and Regulation (EU) 2017/821
Professional supply chain management, due diligence audits, and sustainable policy implementation for EU importers and global manufacturers.
What are “Conflict Minerals”?
The term “conflict minerals” refers to raw materials whose extraction and trade in conflict-affected areas contribute to human rights abuses, financing of armed groups, and corruption. Regulation (EU) 2017/821 imposes strict due diligence obligations on EU importers of these minerals. This regulation impacts a wide range of industries—from mobile phones and laptops to automotive electronics, construction, and medical devices.
The most commonly affected materials, known as 3TG, are critical to the global economy and modern technology:
At ISOBG, we help organizations integrate ethical practices that not only meet legal requirements but also enhance corporate reputation and investor confidence. Our services are fully compatible with your existing management systems, such as ISO 9001 (Quality) and ISO 14001 (Environment).
The 5 OECD Due Diligence Steps
Our methodology strictly follows the “OECD Due Diligence Guidance,” which is the globally recognized standard for responsible mineral sourcing from conflict-affected and high-risk areas.
01
Strong Management Systems
Adopt a company policy for the supply chain and structure internal management systems to support supply chain due diligence.
02
Risk Assessment
Identify and assess risks in the supply chain (actual and potential adverse impacts) regarding mineral extraction and trade.
03
Risk Management
Design and implement a strategy to respond to identified risks (mitigate risks or disengage from trade).
04
Independent Audit
Carry out an independent third-party audit (by ISOBG) of supply chain due diligence practices at smelters and refiners.
05
Reporting
Report annually on supply chain due diligence policies and practices to the public and stakeholders.
Our Consulting Services
Regulation 2017/821 Implementation
We develop complete documentation and processes tailored to your business scale. We integrate regulation requirements into your existing ISO Standards to avoid procedural duplication and unnecessary administrative burden.
Due Diligence Services
We perform detailed supplier analysis. We verify material origin and check for “red flags” in the supply chain using official international sources and specialized traceability databases.
Independent Third-Party Audit
As a professional auditing body, we conduct independent verification of compliance with Articles 4, 5, and 7 of the Regulation. We issue a report certifying your correctness to national regulators and partners.
Responsible Sourcing Policy
In accordance with European Commission requirements (view official regulation), every company must clearly declare its commitment.
We help you formulate a policy that includes:
- Guarantee of non-support (direct or indirect) to armed groups.
- Respect for human rights and labor standards across the supply chain.
- Inclusion of responsible sourcing clauses in supplier contracts.
- Whistleblowing mechanisms for reporting violations.
Why do you need a professional consultant?
Conflict mineral regulations are dynamic, and the risk of non-compliance is high. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to the severance of trade relations with key EU partners and significant penalties.
The ISOBG team has expertise not only in standards but also in specific requirements for financial control and anti-bribery (ISO 37001), making us a reliable partner for your business security.
Related Audits and Assessments
Beyond conflict minerals management, we offer expertise for overall organizational security:
Cybersecurity (NIS Directive)
Assessment of compliance with minimum requirements for network and information security. This is directly linked to ISO/IEC 27001, where we protect your supply chain and partner data from cyber threats.
Financial Management & Control
Evaluation of financial management and control systems (Public Sector). We verify legality, efficiency, and anti-corruption practices in fund expenditure and asset management.
Anti-Corruption Policies
Implementation of ethical codes and partner due diligence systems that minimize the risk of corruption practices, bribery, and fraud within your supply chain.
View all our upcoming training courses to enhance your team’s qualifications.