In the copper- and cobalt-rich soils of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a rare group of plant species—copper flora—has evolved to thrive in high-metal environments. These plants represent a globally unique ecological resource. TFM regards them as a conservation priority and actively implements ecological initiatives to protect them.

Scientific Approach to Safeguard Ecological Treasures

For nearly 20 years, TFM has been advancing its copper flora conservation program, strictly adhering to international standards such as ICMM Principle 7 and IFC Performance Standard 6. Each project begins with a comprehensive environmental assessment, including:

· Local species inventory

· Identification of sensitive habitats

· Implementation of the ecological management hierarchy: Avoid – Minimize – Restore – Offset

TFM has also established a dedicated nursery and seed bank, successfully preserving and regenerating nearly 40 species of metal-tolerant plants.

Academic Collaboration to Drive Scientific Innovation

TFM collaborates with the University of Lubumbashi to study the growth, reproduction, and conservation mechanisms of copper flora. This research enhances scientific understanding of heavy metal-tolerant plants and supports soil revegetation and ecological stability in mining areas.

Fire Prevention to Protect Ecosystems

To mitigate the risk of wildfires during the dry season, TFM has established effective firebreaks around its mining areas, reducing fire hazards and protecting forest biodiversity.

 Land Rehabilitation to Restore Ecological Integrity

Ecological restoration is integrated throughout the life of mine. In 2024, under the Plan of Progressive Rehabilitation of Degraded Operational Areas (PRDOS), TFM restored 90,000 square meters of impacted land, including:

· Kwatebala Area: 40,000 m²

· Eastern Mixed Mine Zone: 20,000 m²

· Buffer Zone between Eastern Mixed Mine Zone and Mano Mapia Community: 30,000 m²

Innovative techniques—such as using termite mound soil and mineralized substrates—have been applied to accelerate vegetation recovery and reduce soil erosion.