In 2023, Rio Tinto PLC conducted an environmental assessment and disclosed corporate waste management data in accordance with recognized sustainability reporting standards.The company provided a breakdown of its waste by type (hazardous vs non-hazardous) and treatment method (recovery vs disposal), enabling greater transparency into its waste handling and environmental practices.
| Metric (tonnes) | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020-2019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Total Waste Generated | 977,737,000a | 978,879,000a | 1,005,643,000a | |
Total Waste Recovered | 9,275,000a | 16,300,000a | 5,113,000a | |
Total Hazardous Waste Generated | 9,226,000a | 8,240,000a | 12,166,000a | |
Non-Hazardous Waste Disposed | N/A | N/A | N/A |
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In 2023, Rio Tinto PLC generated a total of 977,737,000metric tonnes of waste.a
Of this amount, 0.95% of Rio Tinto PLC's total waste generated was recovered through methods such as recycling, reuse, or composting, while 0.15% was disposed of through landfilling, incineration, or combustion.The remaining 98.9% was either treated using unspecified methods or not clearly categorized.a
In 2023, Rio Tinto PLC reported a total waste generation of 977,737,000 metric tonnes, of which 0.95% was recovered through recycling, reuse, or composting.This low recovery rate highlights limited waste diversion and suggests that Rio Tinto PLC may be relying more heavily on landfill or incineration, underscoring opportunities for stronger resource recovery initiatives.a
Since 2019, Rio Tinto PLC's total waste generation increased by 7.96%, but remained relatively stable in 2023, suggesting that past growth in waste production may have recently plateaued.a
Over the same period, Rio Tinto PLC's waste recovery rate increased by 1,267.97%, but declined by 43.03% in 2023, potentially signaling volatility in waste treatment processes or shifting priorities in waste management.a
Overall, Rio Tinto PLC’s waste generation and recovery data show a mixed and inconsistent trend. A deeper analysis of the company's activities, industry benchmarks, and operational changes is needed to assess its sustainability performance more precisely.
In 2023, Rio Tinto PLC generated a total of 977,737,000 metric tonnes of waste.a
Of this amount, 0.94% of Rio Tinto PLC's total waste generated of was classified as hazardous waste, characterized by properties such as toxicity, flammability, corrosiveness, or reactivity that may pose risks to human health, ecosystems, or the environment.99.06% was identified as non-hazardous waste, generally considered less harmful and subject to lighter regulatory controls.a
Since 2019, Rio Tinto PLC's total waste generation rose by 7.96%, yet remained stable in 2023, suggesting recent efforts may have paused further escalation, though historical accumulation remains a concern.a
Over the same period, the share of hazardous waste decreased by 16.17%, yet rose by 12.1% in 2023, potentially signaling operational variability, temporary setbacks, or less effective hazardous waste mitigation in the short term.a
Overall, Rio Tinto PLC's waste and hazardousness trends are mixed or inconclusive. A more detailed review of its materials, industry standards, and operational changes would help clarify the net environmental impact of its waste strategy.a