The International Copper Association (ICA) has elected Shehzad Bharmal, senior VP base metals of Canadian miner Teck Resources, as its chairperson of the board. He will serve in this capacity for two years.

Bharmal is replacing Steve Higgins, senior VP and chief administrative officer of Freeport-McMoRan, who has served for the last two years.

ICA is embarking on a new strategic plan, which considers copper's role in climate action, as well as the industry's development perspectives on sustainability, including the circular economy, responsible production and decarbonisation. These issues are core to Teck's agenda, making Bharmal well suited to guide ICA as it takes up its new strategic plan.

"Globally, governments, industry and society in general are becoming increasingly aware of the critical role of metals and minerals such as copper in the global low-carbon future. Copper is essential for modern life, particularly the transition to renewable energy and electrification," noted Bharmal.

"As the leading voice for the copper industry, ICA is well positioned to support members' ambitions to responsibly produce this essential metal while advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals."

"Teck's commitment to sustainability directs much of their operations. Shehzad, through his role at Teck, understands the vital role responsible mining plays in reaching a low-carbon economy. I have no doubt he will be a strong advocate for copper markets and for the role copper and the copper industry can play in achieving global decarbonization goals. Additionally, I am extremely grateful to Steve Higgins for his leadership and dedication over the last two years. He has been pivotal in assisting ICA and the copper industry in efforts highlighting the essential role copper plays in the global economy,” said ICA president Tony Lea.

Teck is a long-standing, active member of ICA, joining the association in 2008.