Due Diligence for Responsible Sand and Silicate Supply Chains

This report examines global sand and silicate supply chains and the risks associated with their extraction, trade, and use. As the second most extracted resource after water, these materials are critical to infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors, yet are often overlooked in responsible sourcing efforts. The paper highlights key environmental, social, and governance risks, including ecosystem damage, informal mining, human rights concerns, and illicit trade. It provides a framework for companies and governments to implement risk-based due diligence aligned with OECD standards, offering practical recommendations to improve transparency, sustainability, and supply chain resilience.