November 29, 2023 - Freeport-McMoRan’s demonstrated leadership and progress toward achieving its sustainability goals have been recognized by a key business partner.

Union Pacific Railroad recently honored Freeport with the railroad’s first Sustainability Partner Award, which acknowledges innovative business practices that reduce environmental impact, and effective engagement and collaboration with key stakeholders, including communities and business partners.

Freeport was one of 12 companies honored at a ceremony held at Union Pacific Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

“These companies share Union Pacific’s drive and commitment to finding sustainable ways of doing business that positively impacts our communities, employees and customers, while building a more sustainable tomorrow,” said Union Pacific President Beth Whited.

More than 90 customer and supplier companies answered Union Pacific’s call for entries for its inaugural sustainability awards. Those selected as award recipients were invited to the ceremony to receive their award, and they also were offered an opportunity to present on an aspect of their sustainability program.

“The event illustrates the commitment both firms – Freeport and Union Pacific – place on sustainability initiatives,” said Michael Ryback, Freeport-McMoRan’s Strategic Category Manager. “Union Pacific is an essential partner for us, as nearly all of our North American rail shipments ride on U.P. tracks.”

In the case of Freeport, the judges were particularly interested in learning about the company’s human rights assessments, which Audrey Mertes, Manager-GSC Sustainability at Freeport-McMoRan, addressed in her presentation. In turn, the Freeport team also was able to pick up best practices from the sustainability efforts of the other winning companies.

“The recently completed Arizona operations human rights assessment definitely drew their attention,” Mertes said. “Overall, it was a great opportunity to learn what others are doing in the ESG space.”

Photo: Freeport-McMoRan received its 2023 Sustainability Partner Award from Union Pacific at a ceremony in Omaha Nebraska.