United Nations Resource Management System

The United Nations Resource Management System (UNRMS) is a voluntary global standard for managing natural resources sustainably.^[1] It is based on the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC).^[2] UNRMS aims to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing a comprehensive framework and methodology for resource progression, policy development, and financing.^[3]

Background

UNRMS is a sustainable resource management system developed by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). It was created to address unsustainable resource supply and use patterns to mitigate environmental and societal impacts while ensuring long-term resource availability.^[4] The UNRMS was initiated in 2017 and goes beyond classification, offering a holistic approach to resource management. It promotes technologies for efficient resource discovery, recovery, and processing. The UNRMS is a significant step towards harmonizing economic, environmental, and social objectives in resource utilization.^[5]

Objectives and goals

UNRMS is a sustainable management framework that aims to enhance resource efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It is designed to promote a circular economy by considering resources as interconnected elements of a broader ecosystem. The system supports stakeholders in adopting sustainable practices across various resource sectors, contributing to achieving SDGs and ensuring responsible production and use of natural resources for present and future generations.^[6]

Framework and methodology

UNRMS framework is based on 12 fundamental principles and 54 requirements. It uses a unique methodology that assesses resources based on their environmental, social, and economic viability, technical feasibility and confidence in estimates. This approach sustainable pathway for resource progression, considering impact on society and the environment.^[7] The methodology promotes the use of high-impact technologies for efficient resource discovery, recovery, and processing, with the aim of advancing sustainable resource management practices that can be adapted to various types of resources and geographical contexts.^[8]

The fundamental principles of UNRMs are:

1. State rights and responsibilities in the management of resources
2. Responsibility to the planet
3. Integrated management of resources
4. Social engagement
5. Service orientation
6. Comprehensive resource recovery
7. Value addition
8. Circularity
9. Health and safety
10. Innovation
11. Transparency
12. Continuous strengthening of core competencies and capabilities.

Application and coverage

UNRMS extends its application across diverse resources, including minerals, petroleum, renewable energy, nuclear and anthropogenic resources, geological storage and groundwater. It is a versatile tool for stakeholders, encompassing governments, industries, and civil society, to manage resources that align with sustainable development goals.^[9] The coverage of UNRMS is not limited to isolated sectors but spans the entire resource base of a region, promoting an integrated approach to resource management that supports policy development, technological advancement, and sustainable financing.^[10]

References

1. UNECE. "United Nations Resource Management System (UNRMS) | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
2. UNECE (2020-12-31). "United Nations Resource Management System: An overview of concepts, objectives and requirements (ECE ENERGY SERIES No. 68) | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
3. UNECE (2024-03-01). "How can sustainability standards transform the raw materials sector in a changing world | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
4. UNECE (2022-11-09). "COP27: UNECE presents UN-approved system for natural resources management to support low-carbon transition | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
5. UCL (2024-03-01). "UCL to play leading role in world's first UN backed centre for circular economy research". UCL News. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
6. Smyth, Vicky (2023-04-26). "UNRMS: A Cornwall Case Study". Met4Tech. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
7. UNECE (2021-09-24). "Countries are committing to implementation of the United Nations Resource Management System | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
8. UNECE (2023-10-24). "Energy Ministers in Asia-Pacific invite application of United Nations Resource Management System Principles | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
9. British Geological Survey (2024-02-29). "British Geological Survey to help deliver UN ICE-SRM | Agg-Net". www.agg-net.com. Retrieved 2024-03-05.
10. UNECE (2023-08-30). "ECOSOC endorses UNRMS, paving the way for the implementation of sustainable resource management principles worldwide | UNECE". unece.org. Retrieved 2024-03-05.

External links

• UNRMS in UNECE Website