IUCN and the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) have been working together on mining, biodiversity and related issues since 2001. The relationship was first formalised in 2003.

Outcomes of the collaboration to date include a Biodiversity performance review released in November 2014; and, the development of the ICMM Good Practice Guidance for Mining and Biodiversity.  

The partnership has also examined the challenges of dealing with legacy mines, and free prior informed consent of indigenous peoples and local communities in potential mining areas.