Transforming resource wealth into sustainable futures: ESG integration in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s mining sector

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) holds a critical position in the global energy transition as the leading producer of cobalt and a major supplier of copper. In 2023, the country produced over 170,000 t of cobalt (accounting for over 70 % of the global supply) and 2.8 million metric tons of copper, reinforcing its strategic economic relevance. Despite this potential, the mining sector remains hindered by weak governance, regulatory inefficiencies, and widespread environmental and social impacts. This study assesses the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in the DRC’s mining sector and examines how these influence development outcomes. Through a qualitative analysis supported by comparative insights from Chile and Australia, the research identifies key institutional and policy gaps that constrain responsible mining practices. While a few companies have adopted ESG-aligned strategies, the sector overall lacks consistent implementation and accountability mechanisms. The findings underscore the need to institutionalize ESG frameworks to enhance regulatory effectiveness, attract responsible investment, and ensure that mineral resource exploitation contributes to inclusive and sustainable development.