lithium-ion batteries. Approximately two-thirds of global cobalt production happens in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which also has a significant part of global production in copper, as well as tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold (3TG or “conflict minerals”).

In the DRC’s industrial mining sector, environmental and social risks are a reality. The small-scale mining operations in cobalt, copper and 3TG that dot the vast country and sustain the livelihoods of approximately two million people, are often beset with profound challenges including human rights violations, as well as conflict-financing (in the case of 3TG in isolated parts of the country). How can battery makers, and the global brands that have to use these materials in their products, be sure that they source them responsibly and in a way thatAward coincides with the company’s fourth birthday, and the conclusion of another very successful year. The past 12 months have seen the firm launch KeyLines 2.0, more than double its customer count and double the size of its Cambridge-based team.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, now in their 50th year, are widely recognised as the UK’s highest accolade for business success. They are awarded to companies based on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, which is then approved by Her Majesty the Queen. A reception for all winners will be held at Buckingham Palace during the summer.

This year, approximately 140 Queen’s Awards have been announced for outstanding business achievement in three fields: International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development.