The Impact of Natural Diamonds

Get the Facts on the Impact of Natural Diamonds

To shed light on the reality of modern diamond recovery, the Natural Diamond Council (ndc) commissioned independent research on its members, who comprise approximately 75% of the world’s diamond production. “the socioeconomic and environmental impact of large-scale diamond mining” analysis conducted by Trucost, part of S&P Global, based on 2016/2017 data, examined 150 different metrics across members’ operations in countries including Botswana, Russia, Canada, Namibia, South Africa, Lesotho, Australia, Zimbabwe And Tanzania.

The NDC and its members recognize that the work that they carry out has an impact on people and the planet. It is a journey in which they are committed to ensure that the work they do creates a positive legacy. Working together for this goal is crucial to all our members. To support this they made three pledges—aligned with 9 of UN’s Sustainable Development Goals – to ensure a common focus to always strive to do the best for the world we live in.

These 3 pledges are: Strengthening Communities, Protecting the Environment, Advancing Gender Equality and Inclusivity.

The pledges are our guiding lights and allow us to highlight the positive work that is being done to support sustainable development and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

Our People

77,000 people employed by NDC members

66% more than the national average salary is what the average ndc member employee earns

$3.9 billion benefits created locally through employment

Our Communities

$6.8 billion benefits infused into communities through the purchase of local goods and services

60% of the value created is retained locally, benefitting communities directly and indirectly

$292 million benefits of social programs including education and healthcare

Our Environment

1,023 sq miles of land NDC members protect; 3x the land that they use

83% of water used for diamond recovery is recycled

99% of waste produced is rock, which is disposed of on site and eventually reclaimed as part of the landscape during the mine closure and rehabilitation process

Source: Natural Diamond Council