Moroccan mining company Managem has addressed concerns raised by a German newspaper regarding toxic arsenic levels in water samples from its Bou Azzer mine.
This mine supplies cobalt to German automaker BMW for electric car batteries, with plans to extend the supply to Renault in 2025.
Following the report by Sueddeutsche Zeitung and broadcasters NDR and WDR, BMW expressed a need for clarity on the mine’s operations.
Managem, however, asserted its adherence to the “highest standards in the industry” for quality, safety, and environmental respect, citing annual audits confirming no irregularities in concentration levels exceeding water standards.
BMW, which sources a significant portion of its cobalt from Morocco, has commissioned independent audits into the Bou Azzer mine’s social and environmental standards.
Renault also plans to initiate an on-site audit by a third party to evaluate environmental, social, and corporate governance aspects.
Managem, majority-owned by the Royal holding company, operates mines across various African countries.
The World Health Organization recognizes arsenic as toxic, with chronic exposure potentially leading to health issues such as skin lesions and cancer.
