"First Quantum Minerals’ Human Rights Policy reflects the company’s commitment to respect internationally recognised human rights standards, including through the responsible management of environmental impacts that may affect communities and livelihoods.

Operations at the Trident project are conducted in accordance with the conditions of the approved Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA). The ESIA identified potential environmental and social impacts associated with the project and outlined measures intended to reduce negative impacts and enhance positive outcomes. These measures are implemented through a series of management plans and were presented to regulators for approval. The management plans are regularly audited to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company commitments.

Land disturbance associated with mining activities is limited to the approved operational footprint and is managed through planned vegetation clearance, topsoil conservation and progressive rehabilitation. Rehabilitation activities over the life of the mine are undertaken on an ongoing basis, including the use of indigenous species to restore disturbed areas over the life of mine.

In addition to on-site measures, the Company also implements a range of conservation and mitigation initiatives off site in collaboration with government and local stakeholders. These initiatives include partnerships to support the protection and management of surrounding forest areas as well as broader biodiversity conservation programmes. Such initiatives aim to address pressures on natural resources and support more sustainable land use practices in the region.

Deforestation in Zambia is a complex, multi-factor issue that is influenced by a range of socioeconomic drivers. The Company’s approach to environmental management includes both site-specific controls and participation in broader conservation initiatives intended to address land-use pressures in the region and, through these programs, First Quantum has demonstrated its commitment to managing its operational impacts responsibly and to working with stakeholders to support environmental protection and sustainable community development."

First Quantum Minerals' full response is attached above.