This month, Vale completed the de-characterization of another structure built using the upstream method, Dike 2 of the Pontal System, located at the Cauê Mine in Itabira (MG). This is the 13th structure of this type to be eliminated by Vale in Brazil since 2019, and the sixth to be de-characterized in the municipality. With this, the company has completed more than 40% of the 30 structures to be eliminated in the de-characterization program, as they were built using the same method as the Brumadinho dam. 

Dike 2 has not received any tailings since 2019, and the de-characterization work generated approximately 200 jobs, both direct and outsourced, with priority given to hiring local workers.  

Dike 2 was the sixth upstream structure to be removed in Itabira, out of a total of ten dams included in the de-characterization program. In September 2022, the Ipoema dam at Mina do Meio and Dike 3, also in the Pontal system, had already been removed. Previously, dams 4 and 5 of the Pontal system and the Rio do Peixe dam were de-characterized. 

Furthermore, to increase safety and reduce the impact in case of an emergency, a downstream containment structure (ECJ) was built as a precautionary measure for the works to eliminate the Minervino and Cordão Nova Vista dams at the Pontal dam. The Coqueirinho ECJ, as it is called, like the others built by Vale, complies with the regulations of the National Mining Agency (ANM) regarding the adoption of measures to increase safety during the de-characterization phase. 

The B3/B4 dam, located at the Mar Azul mine in Nova Lima (MG), had its emergency level reduced from 2 to 1 by the National Mining Agency this Monday night (9/10). The progress of the de-characterization process, with the removal of approximately 85% of the reservoir's contents, led to an improvement in the dam's stability conditions and made it possible to reduce the emergency level, as required by current legislation.

Despite the improvement in the dam's stability conditions, in a joint decision with the Municipal and State Civil Defense, and in compliance with the regulations of the National Mining Agency (ANM), the structure's self-rescue zone (ZAS), now at Emergency Level 1, must remain evacuated as a preventive and safety measure. As such, there will be no return of families or release of access at this time.

The B3/B4 dam is one of 18 upstream dams still to be eliminated by Vale and is part of the company's de-characterization program. As of 2019, 12 of the 30 planned structures have already been eliminated (nine in Minas Gerais and three in Pará), representing 40% of the total. The Company expects to complete the elimination of the 13th structure this month.

Click here to read the full press release (available only in Portuguese).

Vale's Base Metals business holds 43.34% of PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (‘PTVI’ or ‘the Company’), making Vale SA an indirect shareholder through its Base Metals ownership. Our operational focus centers in Sorowako, South Sulawesi, consisting of mining, smelting, and refining activities. PTVI's growth projects align with Indonesia's ambition to become a global electric vehicle hub, with ongoing initiatives in Central, South, and Southeast Sulawesi. PTVI is listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Learn more at www.vale.com/indonesia.

This statement provides clarification of some key socio and environmental topics related to our activities in the region.

PTVI has pursued sustainable nickel mining and processing excellence since its establishment in 1968 and remains committed to ethical practices and ESG principles. Our interactions with local communities are rooted in dialogue and mutual agreement, ensuring just compensation in line with legal norms. PTVI undertakes a formal grievance process upon receipt of any stakeholder complaint. We actively address unauthorized encroachments within our concession area and collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure compliance. Any activities related to relocation and compensation adhere to the International Finance Corporation's Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability and other internationally recognized best practice frameworks. Farmers, for instance, who have been subject to involuntary displacement have been duly compensated.

Respecting Human Rights is a paramount concern for PTVI. Our Code of Conduct (CoC) and Human Rights Policy are aligned with international standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights. We emphasize open dialogue with local communities and authorities to resolve conflicts. Our commitment to Human Rights training for all security personnel, as outlined in our CoC, underscores this commitment. Reports of threats or harassment are treated seriously and reported to authorities as per national legislation. In compliance with Indonesian laws and regulations, PTVI reports acts of violence and disruption of mining activities through non-peaceful demonstrations, such as a recent occurrence near the Asuli and Lembo South area in 2023.

PTVI is also dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the communities where it operates and remains committed to mitigating any risk and impact of its mining activity on the area's water quality. The local community in Asuli village historically faced limited access to water sources and relied on water storage ponds for their water supply. Prior to commencing mining activities, PTVI conducted a comprehensive hydrological analysis to minimize potential impacts on existing water sources and storage ponds. This analysis revealed that the pre-existing water storage ponds already suffered from issues of being brown and muddy with limited water volume, confirming that the poor quality of the spring water existed prior to PTVI initiating mining operations in the area. Additionally, the Lembo South block featured unauthorized pepper plantations within a protected forestry area established by local communities alongside mining activities. Based on PTVI's hydrological analysis, there is no evidence of adverse effects on water storage ponds resulting from mining activities. Despite the limited extent of our mining operations in the Lembo South Block and the absence of any negative impact on the local communities' water storage ponds, PTVI has taken proactive steps in constructing multiple water tank facilities to cater to the needs of neighboring communities, especially the Asuli village.

Moreover, PTVI has consistently upheld an exceptional water quality record. We have been and remain fully committed to ensuring the availability of clean and safe water. Within Sorowako, PTVI effectively manages over 120 wastewater treatment facilities spanning more than 250 hectares to ensure that water discharge aligns with mandated standards. Rigorous effluent sampling and testing take place on a daily basis. Collaboration with accredited independent laboratories for the collection and processing of effluents, in conjunction with regular governmental oversight and assessments, underscores our commitment to compliance. This commitment extends beyond legal requirements, exemplified by PTVI's track record of surpassing prevailing laws and regulations. PTVI is dedicated to addressing concerns related to hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) within our operations. The 2022 PTVI Sustainability Report highlights our meticulous monitoring and sampling efforts, consistently demonstrating that Cr6+ levels in effluents remain well below permissible limits.

In Sorowako, including the Asuli village, our efforts in this regard have encompassed other various initiatives as well. To facilitate easier access to safe and clean water, PTVI has implemented the provision of water tanks, bolstering local communities' water supply infrastructure. Our approach is comprehensive, incorporating hydrological analysis, the establishment of clean water sources through water tanks and borehole wells within the existing network, the identification of springs, and the installation of necessary equipment. The hydrological analysis conducted underscores that our mining activities do not have a detrimental impact on the water supply. Our engagement with communities, in tandem with our collaboration with local authorities, is well-documented. Notably, since July 2023, the community has taken charge of a self-managed water system initiated and furnished by PTVI. Through active participation, the community maintains operation and upkeep of this system, ensuring the sustained availability of clean water.

PTVI refrains from making comments on the discretionary actions of the Police and regulatory bodies and affirms our commitment to legal adherence and ethical conduct, reporting instances of violence and vandalism involving PTVI's employees, contractors, and assets in accordance with its commitment to provide a safe and healthy workplace. . Our approach to conflict resolution prioritizes open dialogue involving the community, village, sub-district, district governments, and other stakeholders. These engagements are carried out with strict observance of the existing legal framework. PTVI’s dedication to the well-being of the community is reflected in our Code of Conduct (CoC) and Human Rights Policy. In line with these commitments, all PTVI security personnel, including contractors, have undergone human rights training.

During a protest in 2023, PTVI found that the protest escalated into vandalism. To avoid potential further escalations or a hostile situation developing, PTVI reported the situation to the authorities, deferring the enforcement to them, as per applicable law. While PTVI cannot comment on police discretion, PTVI's commitment to dialogue is unwavering whilst upholding our obligation to report incidents and prioritize peaceful resolution, fostering a safe and inclusive environment. Our commitment to community safety and respecting and promoting Human Rights is again prescribed in our CoC and Human Rights Policy.

Engagement through open dialogue is a cornerstone of PTVI's approach, and we actively prioritize interactions with the local community, village leadership, sub-district and district governments, as well as other relevant stakeholders. It is crucial to note that PTVI's influence does not extend to military actions. We respect military jurisdiction and are committed to safeguarding and upholding human rights within our operations. Inquiries or concerns pertaining to military conduct should be directed to the appropriate governing bodies in Indonesia.

PTVI reaffirms our commitment to open dialogue with civil society, to promotion of community welfare, and to abiding by the highest ESG standards.

Fulfilling the commitment assumed with the ICMM, with society and its employees, Vale has implemented GISTM in 48 of its 50 tailings storage facilities (TSFs), 35 of which are in the Ferrous business unit in Brazil and 13 in the Base Metals business unit (11 in Canada and 2 in Brazil). The two remaining Ferrous TSFs in Brazil have a lower consequence classification and it will comply with the standard by August 2025, following the criteria of the Conformance Protocols defined by ICMM. The 48 compliant TSFs meet the GISTM requirements, and some of them have action plans in place according to the Conformance Protocols.

To access the complete Press Release, click here.

More information about the Vale’s dams is available at www.vale.com/web/esg/. 

Vale informs that the Declarations of Conformity and Operability ("DCO") of the Emergency Action Plans for Mining Dams ("PAEBM") have been denied for four of its structures, namely Monjolo, ED Monjolo, Porteirinha (Piracicaba River, MG) and Dam 7 (Jeceaba, MG), in accordance with Resolution No. 95/2022 of the National Mining Agency (ANM). The DCO became mandatory in 2022 and specifically evaluates the PAEBM and related measures. The denial signals that there are actions to be taken by Vale to ensure that the referenced PAEBMs have adequate operating conditions. The company is acting to resolve the identified discrepancies as soon as possible.

Vale reiterates that the stability conditions of the four structures remain unchanged. Of the four structures, only Dam 7 was in operation for tailings disposal at the time of the assessment. Based on the negative DCO and prioritizing the best safety conditions for its employees and communities, Vale has suspended the operation of Dam 7 and related production processes until the actions related to the corresponding PAEBM are implemented.

Vale S.A. informs that Mr. Manuel Lino Silva de Sousa Oliveira was appointed today as Lead Independent Director of Vale's Board of Directors. Mr. Ollie Oliveira has been an independent member of the Company's board since 2021, with recognized performance on several international boards in the industrial area and with more than 35 years of experience in corporate finance and strategy, mainly in the mining sector.  

To access the complete Press Release, click here. 

And for more information, access the Board of Directors and Leadership.  
 

Vale released yesterday its Tax Transparency Report 2022, which details the taxes and royalties paid in Brazil, where most of our operations are located, and those paid globally to all spheres of government and by project.

We highlight the jurisdictions where we have our mining operations, since our tax contribution plays a fundamental role in supporting the communities, people and governments of the regions where we operate.
In 2022, Vale paid US$ 9.6 billion in taxes and royalties, of which US$ 8.7 billion (90%) were paid in Brazil.

Click here to access the full report.

And for additional information, please visit Ethics, Compliance and Tax Transparency.
 

Vale's Ethics & Compliance Program is completing two years. In line with our commitment to transparency, we are releasing the second edition of our Ethics & Compliance Annual Report, which gathers information from 2022.

In addition to Whistleblower Channel and Consequence Management data, including the number of terminations of employment in 2022, the document highlights the implementation of our new channel for employees and contractors in Brazil to report sexual harassment or discrimination with specialized and empathetic support. Information about our communication and training actions carried out last year, such as Ethics Week, is also shared in this report.

Click here to access the report. 

For more information about the Program, visit the Ethics & Compliance page.

From the 22nd to the 24th of March, Vale will participate in the UN Water Conference 2023 in New York.
The purpose of the conference is to review the implementation of the Decade Goals: Water for Sustainable Development.

In addition to being present at the conference, we will also promote a virtual Side Event: Challenges and opportunities for sustainable water management in the mining industry.

Our goal is to encourage discussion about the mining sector's relationship with water and present common challenges and best practices aiming at the rational and sustainable use of the resource.

Speakers
Bruno Ferraz (Environment Executive Manager | Vale)
Guilherme Alves (Environment Manager | Vale)
Renata Andries (Water Resources Specialist| Vale) 
David Soares (Water Resources Specialist| Vale)
Felipe Tavares (Superintendent of Hydrological and Socioeconomic Studies | ANA | National Water Agency) 
Cláudia Salles (Manager of Sustainability | IBRAM | Brazilian Mining Institute)
Valmir Pedrosa (Professor and Consultant | UFAL | Federal University of Alagoas)
Alice Castilho (Director of Territorial Management |CPRM | Geological Service of Brazil)
Luis Armacollo (Corporate Account Manager | CEBEDS representative | Brazilian Business Council for Sustainable Development)
Guilherme Freitas (Global Health, Safety and Environment Manager | NEXA)

PARTICIPATE AND HELP US SHARE THIS IDEA!

Date: March 22, 2023
Time: 1:00 pm (NY time | EDT)

To attend the event, click here.

As approved at Vale's last board meeting held on 12/22/2022, we disclosed the updated Vale Group Business and Entity Management Policy. On the same date, we approved the new Authority Policy, and it became a Policy of public use. This change reflects the creation of the Drafting and Publication of Policies. And it brings an unfolding of the latest changes of the Bylaws, establishing the limits of jurisdiction that are the responsibility of the Board of Directors and by exclusion those who are delegated to the Executive Committee.

Vale S.A. (“Vale”) informs that the B3/B4 dam, located in Nova Lima (MG), was removed from critical safety condition as the emergency level was lowered from 3 to 2.

The progress of the dam de-characterization, with the removal of more than 50% of the tailings, improved the stability conditions of the structure and made it possible to lower the emergency level. 

The Self-Rescue Zone (ZAS) of the structure on emergency level 2 will remain evacuated and access to the ZAS area will follow legislation and regulatory bodies review. The de-characterization of the dam will continue to be carried out by remotely operated equipment and is expected to be concluded in 2025. Vale expects to lower the emergency level to 1 by the end of 2023.

Eliminating upstream structures in Brazil is one of Vale's key commitments. By 2022, 12 structures were eliminated, representing 40% of Vale's de-characterization program. 

B3/B4 dam reduction level is an important milestone for Vale and is in lline with the expectation of no dams in critical safety condition (level 3 of emergency) by 2025.
 

For more information, access Control and Management of Dams

​In view of the biannual submission of Stability Condition Declarations (“DCEs”) to the National Mining Agency (“ANM”), on March 31, 2022, Vale informs that a dam (Porteirinha) has been added to the list of structures with negative DCE. Thus, there are currently 30 dams without DCE and with active emergency level protocols, reflecting the greater scrutiny and rigor adopted in the risk management program associated with dams, through continuous monitoring via EoR (Engineer of Record). Also in line with the evolution of governance and management processes, a review was made of the number of dams included in the National Dam Safety Policy (“PNSB”). The updates refer to the following structures:

1. Porteirinha Dam, located at the Água Limpa mine, in the municipality of Santa Bárbara/MG, intended for sediment containment, located at the Água Limpa mine, in the municipality of Santa Bárbara/MG, which had a negative DCE emission, within the process of continuous performance evaluation carried out by the respective EoR from the review of new information obtained with new drilling and testing data. In this sense, the level 1 emergency protocol was activated, according to the Emergency Action Plan for Mining Dams, without the need to evacuate the Self-Rescue Zone downstream of the structure and without material impact on the company's operations. It is a small-sized, conventional earth dam, with about 2.4 million cubic meters of accumulated sediment volume. Vale will establish complementary studies and implement additional security measures for the structure, in line with its conservative approach to risk management.

2. Pondes de Rejeitos, in the municipality of Parauapebas/PA, was permanently excluded from the PNSB due to its de-characterization.

3. Dique 02 and Dique 06, located in Barão de Cocais/MG and São Félix do Xingu/PA, previously reported within the scope of the PNSB, had this reporting removed due to a review of the regulatory understanding.

4. Bacia 05 Pé de Serra, Captação de Água, Lagoa Azul and Natividade, located in the municipalities of Corumbá/MS, Parauapebas/PA, Brumadinho/MG and Ouro Preto/MG, respectively, with previous reporting as mining structures included in the PNSB, were removed from such framework in the condition of structures for water catchment, non-related to the mining activity.

In this context, the total number of Vale's mining structures included in the PNSB decreases from 110 to 103. The company reiterates that its priorities are the safety of people and communities downstream of its operations and the safety of all its structures. For more information on the management and performance of Vale's dams, visit the pages dedicated to the themes on the company's ESG Portal.

​Conclusion of the works on dike 5, in Itabira (MG), represents an advance in the company’s commitment to eliminate every upstream dams it has in the country.

The decharacterization works in dike 5 of Pontal dam, in Itabira (MG), are concluded. The structure lost its upstream characteristics and does not store tailings anymore. The work was done with the adoption of rigorous Covid-19 prevention protocols. 


Since 2019, Vale already eliminated seven upstream dams in the country. The most recent, in July, was Fernandinho dam, in Nova Lima, in Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Region. In total, four structures in Minas Gerais e three in Pará were already decharacterizated and reintegrated in the environment.


Other 23 structures, all of them in Minas Gerais, will have their upstream characteristics eliminated. The projects are in action and are monitored by the regulators, Ministério Público and independent technical audits. Vale reinforces its commitment of eliminate all the upstream dams in the country, assumed in 2019, in the lower term possible, prioritizing people’s and environment’s safety.



The work conclusion of dike 5 represents an advance in the Decharacterization Program and in Vale’s commitment with a more transparent and safe management of its dams. The Decharacterization Program schedule and other information about the management of Vale’s dams are available and are regularly updated at www.vale.com/esg.

 

​Vale SA ("Vale" or "Company) informs that it has completed the decharacterization works of the Fernandinho dam, located at Abóboras Mine, Vargem Grande Complex, in Nova Lima (MG). The company also informs that it has completed the construction of the downstream containment structure (“ECJ”) that serves the Forquilhas I, II, III, IV and Grupo dams and is located between the municipalities of Itabirito and Ouro Preto (MG), near the Fábrica Mine. The completion of both projects reflects Vale's progress in its commitment to best practices in the management of its dams.

Decharacterization of the Fernandinho dam 
With the completion of the decharacterization works, which will still be evaluated by the competent bodies, Fernandinho no longer has the characteristics of a dam, losing its function of tailings and water storage. In the decharacterization process, 558 thousand cubic meters of tailings were removed and a central drainage channel was built, with subsequent revegetation and reintegration of the area into the local environment. The activities had around 540 workers, mostly residing in the Nova Lima region. The work was executed with the strict adoption of Covid-19 prevention protocols. 
The Fernandinho dam was part of Vale's Dam Decharacterization Program, aimed at structures with upstream heightening, a method similar to that used in the collapsed dam in Brumadinho. The decharacterization of upstream dams is a commitment made by Vale and a legal obligation to increase the safety of communities and operations. Since 2019, six upstream structures have been completely decharacterized and reintegrated into the environment. 

Completion of Fábrica’s ECJ 
The containment structure downstream of Fábrica Mine, with works completed, has the capacity to retain the tailings of the Forquilhas I, II, III, IV and Grupo dams, located upstream of the Fábrica Mine, in a hypothetical scenario of simultaneous rupture. At 95 meters high and 330 meters long, the structure increases the safety of people living in nearby communities and protects the Secondary Safety Zones of the aforementioned dams, which include part of the municipalities of Itabirito, Raposos, Rio Acima and Nova Lima, in addition to three neighborhoods in Belo Horizonte.
The conclusion of the ECJ allows preparations for the decharacterization of the Forquilhas I, II, III and Grupo dams. Forquilha IV dam is at emergency level 1, Forquilhas I, II and Grupo are at level 2, and Forquilhas III is at level 3 of the Emergency Action Plan for Mining Dams (“PAEBM”). All structures have continuous instrumental monitoring, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, managed by Vale's Geotechnical Monitoring Center. Fábrica’s ECJ was built under the strictest national standards, the best engineering practices and technical references from international entities. Vale continues to assess, together with the technical auditor of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the need for additional actions. 
The completion of the two works represents the advance of Vale’s Decharacterization Program and commitment to a more transparent and safer approach in the management of the company’s dams.
 

​Vale released today the second edition of its Tax Transparency Report that sets out the company’s approach to tax – one that is rooted in compliance, transparency, a long-term view, risk management and positive relationships with tax authorities. We also share details of how Vale has supported our communities, partners and our staff through the COVID-19 pandemic.
It builds on our first publication last year by sharing more information on how, when and why we pay tax – and includes details of our greater economic contribution in the society.
This report details taxes and royalties paid in Brazil, where most of the operations are located, and worldwide for all government spheres, and by project, highlighting the jurisdictions that we operate.
The report is an important part of our new pact with society as we look to better engage our stakeholders in the places we work.
In 2020, Vale paid US$ 5.7 billion in taxes and royalties, out of which U$$ 4.9 billion (86%) — was paid in Brazil.

 

​In 2021, the Integrated Report was launched replacing the Sustainability Report. With a more concise approach and greater focus on the ESG strategy, the document was prepared according to the guidelines of the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC), in addition to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards.
 

​Vale  informs that, in line with its iron ore production resumption plan, the emergency level of the Itabiruçu dam, located at the Itabira Complex, has been removed after a thorough analysis of its geotechnical characteristics. As of this moment, the dam is in compliance with the legal safety parameters and released. 
 

Vale informs that it has published today, its first annual Tax Transparency Report as part of our new pact with society and journey to better engage our stakeholders. 



In 2019, Vale paid US$ 4.5 billion in taxes and royalties globally, of which more than 90% (US$ 4.2 billion) were paid in Brazil, where most of our operations are carried out. The amount of US$ 4.5 billion in taxes and royalties paid in 2019 corresponds to more than 10% of Vale’s total economic contribution last year. In addition to tax payments, this contribution includes operational costs, salaries and employee benefits, among others. 


The report sets out the principles behind Vale’s approach to tax and investment. It includes information about corporate income taxes, tax on mining, payroll taxes, tax on products and services and other taxes, providing data on the taxes paid in Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Mozambique and New Caledonia. 


With this publication, Vale meets with one year in advance its commitment to deliver a detailed tax transparency report as part of its ESG agenda. According to an action plan to fulfil Vale’s ESG reporting commitment, the report was originally scheduled to be published in 2021.


The disclosure of the Tax Transparency report demonstrates Vale’s commitment to transparency as it follows the principles recommended by international entities such as the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). 
 

​Vale informs that today it started, on a preventive basis, the Level 1 emergency protocol for Barragem 5, at Mina da Mutuca, Nova Lima (Minas Gerais), a protocol that does not require the evacuation of the population downstream of the dam. This tailings dam was built with compacted soil, with a downstream construction method and no longer receives mining tailings.This protocol is a preventive measure.

 

​Vale informs that, on the present date, the Board of Directors has decided to create and establish the Nomination Committee, another important step towards Vale's corporate governance evolution, in which a specific body will directly assist the Board of Directors, proposing improvements related to the structure, size and composition of the Board, in addition to recommending the skills, profiles and potential nominees for the Board, so that Vale continues to benefit from the plurality of arguments and a decision-making process with quality and care, in compliance with laws, ethics and best corporate governance practices. 
 

Vale seeks to be a tireless protagonist towards the neutrality of GHG emissions in the steel, metallurgical and shipping industries and in this sense and in this context, the company updated its climate change policy with strategies to become carbon neutral by 2050.
 

Check out detailed information about Vale's structures in the Technical Reports section of our Dam Control and Management page.


 

​Vale informs that today it started, on a preventive basis, the Level 1 emergency protocol for dams 6 and 7A, at the Águas Claras Mine, Nova Lima (Minas Gerais) and the Area IX dam, at the Fábrica Mine, Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais), all of them inactive, protocol that does not require the evacuation of the population downstream of the dam.
 

The total amount so far invested in these countries exceeds USD 2,2 million for actions to tackle the spread of the virus and treat the disease.

Since the end of January, Vale has taken all measures required to support the prevention of COVID-19 in its operations and to contribute to the regions in which it operates. Globally, the company complies with the health and safety protocols established by the authorities and agencies of each country and aims to support government initiatives in order to alleviate the burden on health care systems. Among the initiatives are donations for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE), health care supplies, hygiene materials, rapid test kits, and the swab test for detecting the virus.

However, humanitarian actions are not limited to the acquisition of inputs. In Indonesia, isolation rooms for the intensive care of patients have been set up and equipped; it was an initiative by Vale Indonesia Tbk in support of the Government of the eastern region of Luwu and the Provincial Government of South Sulawesi. Aiming to help Chinese hospitals and their teams address the health challenge, Vale has donated RMB3.3 million to the Chinese Red Cross Foundation. In Canada, in response to Sudbury Food Bank's request for financial support, USD 100,000 was allocated to the Cash for Cans campaign, which sustains the growing demand for food during the pandemic. Aiming to support the Mozambican Government, a memorandum of support to tackle the disease was signed in addition to supplies amounting to almost USD 2,000,000.00 (two million US dollars). This aid includes several hygiene materials, hospital equipment, personal protection items for health care professionals, and 80,000 rapid tests. To contribute to the well-being of the communities in which it operates, Vale Malaysia Minerals (VMM) has donated 20,000 COVID-19 test kits to the Malaysian Ministry of Health, in addition to donations to Manjung – where the maritime terminal of Teluk Rubiah operates –, totaling RM 85,000.

The support for the countries in which Vale operates is continuous to containing the pandemic. The company has planned new donations for actions to tackle the spread of the virus and treat the disease.

These are the main humanitarian actions already taken, in each country, by Vale to tackle the COVID-19:

China

Action to support the Chinese Red Cross Foundation – RMB 3.3 million

•     Purchase of health care supplies, including protective clothing, masks, goggles, and other required materials.

Canada 

Action to support the Sudbury Food Bank – USD 100,000

•     Donation to the Cash for Cans campaign, which is designed to meet the demand for food during the pandemic. Sudbury Food Bank is a central food distributor for 44 food banks and meal suppliers across Greater Sudbury. Currently, these agencies support 8,500 people per month, and this number is expected to grow due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other Actions

Vale has launched the COVID-19 Challenge, which will provide USD 1,000,000 to develop solutions against the disease, including risk monitoring and prevention as well as patient monitoring. Also, there is an Open Challenge category, which covers other topics. Companies, startups, institutions, government, universities, and professionals have been invited to participate.

Mozambique

Actions to support the Mozambican Government – USD 2,000,000.00

•     Hygiene materials, hospital equipment, and personal protective items for health care professionals.

•     Donation of 80 thousand rapid tests.

•     Donation of PPE for the Health area, such as gloves, masks, goggles, boots, safety overalls, and aprons.

•     Donation of hygiene material, including electric sprayers, alcohol for disinfection, and soap bars. 

•     Provision of hospital equipment, such as infusion pumps, sample collection kits, aspirators, and defibrillators.

Other Actions

•     Creation of a 24-hour helpline number designed to share daily information about COVID-19, additionally to the Internal Communication channels, with direct and third-party employees.

Indonesia

Actions to support the Government of the eastern region of Luwu    

• Donation of 10 hospital beds, disinfectant liquid, thermal guns, protective clothing, surgical masks, N95 masks, and rubber gloves. 

•     Donation of 13 hospital beds for isolation rooms at the Burau Community Health Center, two ventilation units for Hospital I Lagaligo, and 13 thermal guns to be used in six control stations under the supervision of GTPP COVID-19 at the eastern region of Luwu.

Actions to support the Provincial Government of South Sulawesi

Donation of 800 N95 masks, 800 surgical masks, 200 rubber gloves, and 100 units of protective clothing for medical teams through the GTPP COVID-19 at South Sulawesi. Donation of an ambulance for a one-year operational period and 1,000 units of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as rubber gloves, for the Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital. 

Other Actions

Vale Indonesia Tbk is conducting mass-scale COVID-19 testing among all employees and service providers in its operational areas of Sorowako, East Luwu Regency, and South Sulawesi. It also plans to progressively cover all 3,000 direct employees and almost 7,000 third-party employees. The planning is expected to test almost 500 people every day. At the same time, rapid tests are also being carried out at Bahodopi (Central Sulawesi) and Pomalaa (South Sulawesi).

Malaysia

Actions to support the Government and Ministry of Health of Malaysia – RM 85,000

•     Donation of 20,000 COVID-19 test kits.

•     Donation of RM 25,000 for supplies to the Manjung District and Land Office aiming the creation of new COVID-19 screening centers.

•     Donation of RM 55,000 for the purchase of eight Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) to support the health care at the Manjung Hospital.

•     Donation of RM 5,000 for thermometers and PPE to Manjung immigration officers, who are on the frontlines, supporting the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

​ Vale  informs that it has initiated, in a preventive manner, the Level 1 emergency protocol of the Dicão Leste dam, of the Fazendão Mine in Catas Altas (MG), a protocol that does not require the evacuation of the population downstream of the dam.

It amounts to almost 70% of the total of R$500 million that the company has allocated to invest in humanitarian actions

Vale has already allocated R$352.8 million to tackle the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in Brazil. It amounts to almost 70% of the total of R$500 million that the company has allocated to invest in humanitarian aid to fight against the spread of the disease. More than 600 tons of inputs have been purchased in China – rapid test kits and personal protective equipment (PPE) – to support the Federal Government and the States where Vale operates (Minas Gerais, Pará, Maranhão, Espírito Santo, Mato Grosso do Sul, and Rio de Janeiro). The first batch arrived in late March and the last will be delivered in May.

This emergency aid, which represents an investment of R$223.3 million, complies with the guidance of health authorities. The cargo, equivalent to the average weight of 600 automobiles, is being transported by 15 airplanes – 13 cargo aircrafts and two airliners. Vale has also taken other humanitarian actions totaling R$129.5 million.

Five million rapid test kits and 15.8 million PPE are being donated to the Federal Government. The company will also provide almost 14.5 million inputs, including kits and PPE, to the six States where it operates. The cargo also includes five million kits purchased by Brazilian banks with Vale’s logistical support in China, thanks to its 50-year partnership with that country. To bring all this cargo of more than 600 tons, Vale mobilized 116 employees from nine areas of the company in Brazil and China.

More than Inputs

However, humanitarian actions are not limited to the acquisition of inputs. The company has helped to build field hospitals, refurbish hospitals, purchase equipment – such as ventilators, hospital beds, and monitors –, as well as donate cleaning materials and 100 tons of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Aiming to guarantee the social isolation of indigenous peoples and traditional communities with which it interfaces, the company will build quarantine centers with all the required logistical support.

In partnership with Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein and the Mater Dei Health Network, Vale has launched a US$1 million public notice (almost R$5 million at the average dollar exchange rate in March) to support innovative solutions aiming to reduce the impact of COVID-19 – the disease caused by the new coronavirus.

And R$2 million was donated to the State Brain Institute to purchase equipment. The Institute, part of a 10-year partnership with Vale, has become a reference in Rio de Janeiro for hospitalization and treatment of the disease.

These are the main humanitarian actions already taken by Vale to tackle the COVID-19:

Actions to Support the Federal Government – R$213.8 million

• Five million rapid test kits for virus detection;
• 15.8 million PPE (2.54 million N95 masks, 10.8 million surgical masks, 216 thousand gloves, 2.24 million aprons, and 4.5 thousand goggles).

Actions to Support the States – R$131.7 million

• 14.5 million inputs, including test kits and PPE, for the six States where the company operates (Minas Gerais, Pará, Maranhão, Espírito Santo, Mato Grosso do Sul, and Rio de Janeiro);
• Construction of three field hospitals in Parauapebas (Pará), Açailândia (Maranhão), and in the city of Rio de Janeiro;
• Refurbishment of three hospitals – two in Minas Gerais (Itabira and Belo Horizonte) and one in Pará (Parauapebas);
• Donation of R$2 million to the State Brain Institute to purchase equipment for brain monitoring, ultrasound, and monitoring robots, among other hospital items. The Institute, part of a 10-year partnership with Vale, has become a reference in Rio de Janeiro for hospitalization and treatment of the disease;
• Logistical support for transportation of hospital equipment;
• Support to the City Government of Parauapebas (Pará) to identify the epidemiological profile of COVID-19 in the municipality through the application of PCR tests by sampling of the population;
• Purchase of 390 hospital equipment (mechanical ventilators, beds and monitors) for four hospitals in Pará: Parauapebas Municipal Hospital, Canaã Municipal Hospital, Yutaka Takeda Hospital and Cinco de Outubro Hospital;
• Donation of 81 thousand items for cleaning, in addition to 100 tons of alcohol-based hand sanitizers and personal hygiene kits to 14 prisons in 13 cities in Minas Gerais;
• Donation of five containers with air conditioning and stretchers to Santa Casa de Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais), which will be used as the first aid center for suspected cases of the new coronavirus;
• Three ambulances to the city of Mariana. The vehicles are equipped with Intensive Care Units (ICU) and respirators for two of them;
• Acquisition of medical and hospital supplies for a hospital in São Luís (Maranhão);
• Anticipation of the donation of five rescue and fire-fighting vehicles to the Fire Department in Maranhão. These vehicles will provide assistance to tackle the COVID-19 in the cleaning of public areas;
• Donation of two solenoid valves to create a prototype of respirator in São Luís.

Actions to Support the Indigenous People and Guilombola Communities – R$2.3 million

• Construction 15 Quarantine Units in Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo to serve the Tupiniquim, Guarani, Krenak and Pataxó ethnic groups that interface with Vale, in addition to the other indigenous peoples from these States;
• Construction of the Quarantine Center for Awá, Guajajara and Ka’apor indigenous peoples, the health professionals for indigenous peoples, and Funai in Santa Inês (Maranhão) (The Technical Cooperation Agreement is under development with Legal and Procurement areas);
• Emergency accommodation support (14 nights) for two Awá families (five indigenous people);
• Donation of cleaning kits to 475 Quilombola families, fish farmers, and artisanal fishermen from Sepetiba bay (Rio de Janeiro);
• Donation of cleaning kits to 10,000 indigenous families in Minas Gerais, Maranhão, Espírito Santo, and Pará.

Other Actions – R$5 million

• Vale, in partnership with Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein and the Mater Dei Health Network, has launched the COVID-19 Challenge public notice to support solutions that reduce the impacts of COVID-19, focusing on the areas of prevention and tracking of risk, screening and diagnosis, monitoring and follow-up of patients, as well as intensive care. Support will be provided in the form of funding or by connecting partners to enable the implementation of such solutions within 15 days. The maximum investment will be US$1 million (almost R$5 million at the average dollar exchange rate in March). Over 1,400 proposals have been submitted. The result of this challenge will be disclosed on the 24th.

Aid to the Suppliers – R$1 billion

At the end of March, mining was declared an essential service by the Ministry of Mines and Energy and, as a result, Vale maintains its activities. To ensure the financial health of its suppliers, the company announced a package of almost R$1 billion, which will benefit almost three thousand suppliers across the country.

The company has been taking several actions to ensure the health of direct and third-party employees. They include implementing home office for eligible functions, implementing leave of absence for employees over 60 years old or with pre-existing diseases (who were instructed to be at home), and the installation of 81 thermal cameras at the entrance of its facilities to identify the temperature of direct and third-party employees, among other measures. All measures taken by Vale comply with the health and safety protocols established by health authorities in regard to the new coronavirus pandemic.

Vale, following the Notice to Shareholders published on 03/30/2020 and 04/15/2020 (“Notices to Shareholders”), informs that, due to the coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19) and pursuant to CVM Instruction No. 622/2020, the Company's Ordinary and Extraordinary Meetings of Shareholders (“AGM/E”) will be held, cumulatively, on 04/30/2020, at 10 am, exclusively by digital means. The Company also informs on the flexibility of the date for sending the distant voting ballot (“BVD”) directly to Vale.

​Vale informs that, yesterday, on a preventive basis, the Level 1 emergency protocol for Borrachudo II dike, of Mina Cauê, in Itabira (MG) was initiated. This protocol does not require the evacuation of the population downstream of the dam. The Borrachudo II dike had its Declaration of Stability Condition (“DCE”) issued on March 31, 2020, which remains valid. 

​Vale is updating its Sustainability Policy aiming to contemplate our new commitments to society and our new strategy to achieve our mission: to transform natural resources into prosperity and sustainable development. 

You can contribute by reading the current version of Vale's Sustainability Policy and answering the following questions. The process takes approximately 10 minutes.

​The Sustainability Report presents Vale’s actions and learnings from the breach of Dam I of the Córrego do Feijão mine, in Brumadinho (Minas Gerais, Brazil). It also describes the managerial changes made to business processes since the event, in addition to economic, environmental and social performance of the organization.

Vale informs that it continues to improve its Tailings Management System (“TMS”), with the support of international experts, and brings updates regarding its structures.

​Vale has been following the evolution of the coronavirus outbreak (Covid-19) in Brazil and aiming to preserve the integrity of its employees, service providers and shareholders at the Annual Extraordinary and General Meetings’ (“AGM/E”), which will be held, cumulatively, on April 30th, 2020, the Company encourages the remote participation of shareholders as an option for in-person participation.

​Since the end of January, Vale has been taking all possible efforts to prevent COVID-19. The company's actions resulting from the pandemic are being managed by a structure of regional and executive committees, created especially to ensure the safety of all. Globally, the company complies with the health and safety protocols established by the authorities and agencies of each country and the actions determined by the internal pandemic preparedness and response plan and closely monitors the development of the situation. Some of our actions:

• Take care of our employees, our operations and our business:
  • Home Office for administrative activities as a preventive measure in various locations around the world;
  • Installation, in the coming weeks, of 81 thermal cameras at the gateways of its units in four Brazilian states (Minas Gerais, Pará, Espírito Santo and Maranhão) in order to identify people with high body temperature, one of the symptoms of the new coronavirus;
  • Increased bus fleet;
  • Extra credit on the food allowance for Vale employees in Brazil;
  • Stoppage for maintenance of the Voisey´s Bay mine for a period of four weeks, as a precaution to help protect the health and well-being of the Nunatsiavut and Innu indigenous communities in Labrador;
  • Redirection and redistribution of ships heading to Teluk Rubiah Maritime Terminal, in Malaysia, to our blending facilities in China;

  • Disbursement of US$ 5 billion from its revolving credit lines due in June 2022 (US$ 2 billion) and December 2024 (US$ 3 billion).

• Temporary aid to suppliers:
  • Anticipation of payments to small and medium-sized companies;

  • About R$ 160 million should be injected into the Brazilian economy in the coming days. 

• Humanitarian aid and care for communities:
  • Donation of 5 million rapid test kits for the new coronavirus (COVID-19) to assist the Brazilian Government in combating the spread of the disease in the country;
  • Passenger Trains on the Carajás Railway (EFC) and Vitória to Minas Railway (EFVM) have been halted temporarily .

​Vale disclosure a timeline with actions and deadlines to adress the recommendations presented in the final Report of the Independent Committee for Extraordinary Assessment (CIAE-A)

Vale has released the documents for the Annual and Extraordinary Meetings of Shareholders, to be held on April 30, 2020.​

Vale informs about the new Audit Committee, its function and composition, in order to further evolve in the aspects of Corporate Governance.​

Vale continue to monitor and report to authorities about the Gongo Soco mine. The construction of the tailings containment structure located in the proximity of the Sul Superior dam was completed.​

​Vale states on the new Bill 191/2020 which is being processed in the National Congress and aims to regulate economic activities, such as Mining, in Indigenous Lands.

​Vale is committed with all efforts and resources to mitigate the possible impacts related to the incident with the MV Stellar Banner vessel, owned and operated by the South Korean.

​Vale is announcing new commitments for 2030 and, in addition, mapped its GAPs in ESG and brought them together in an Action Plan for monitoring and alignment with best practices. Check out the action plan.

The temporary suspension of disposal of tailings of the Brucutu was a proactive conservative measure of the company while assessing the dam’s geotechnical characteristics.