GLOSSARY

Responsible minerals sourcing

Responsible minerals sourcing refers to the system of tracing and auditing the origin and chain of custody of minerals mined in conflict-affected and high-risk areas — such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold (3TG) — to ensure they don't fund human-rights abuses or armed conflict. Industry initiatives such as the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) provide shared tools for this work.

Why it matters for Tier-2/3

EV batteries and electronic components rely heavily on 3TG plus minerals like cobalt and lithium, so OEM and electronics customers commonly ask suppliers for origin declarations such as a CMRT. For a Tier-2/3 supplier, the practical starting point is simply checking whether you know the upstream supply chain of the raw materials you use.

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