Sustainability and addressing climate change

This Case Study profiles how BHP Billiton has developed and implemented its Sustainable Development Policy and dealt with climate change issues.

As a result of reading this Case Study, students should be able to:

• Outline the concepts of sustainability, climate change, change management, holistic business approach, and emission/carbon credit trading
• Identify why BHP Billiton developed its Sustainable Development Policy and addressed climate change issues
• Describe BHP Billiton's business case for and approach to sustainable development
• Explain the importance to BHP Billiton of addressing climate change issues.

Introduction

Imagine that the world is like a business.

BHP Billiton's holistic approach

BHP Billiton's purpose is to create long-term value through discovery, development and conversion of natural resources, and the provision of innovative customer and market-focussed solutions.

BHP Billiton's sustainable development strategy

A business will only survive if it is profitable and sustainable in the long term.

Responding to climate change

Climate change is a global issue that has caused serious concern over the past two decades.

Creating a climate change policy

BHP Billiton operates within a dynamic business environment.

Effective operational management - EKATI Diamond Mine

The EKATI Diamond Mine, located in Lac de Gras region, Northwest Territories, Canada, is an example of what can be achieved when climate change policies are implemented.

Conclusion

BHP Billiton takes its ethical and social responsibilities seriously and invests time, money and resources in numerous sustainable development programs.