In order to answer this question, we must first define what conflict minerals are. Any natural resource that is mined in a conflict zone and sold to perpetuate fighting is defined as a conflict resource. The conflict minerals that are most commonly extracted are cassiterite (used for tin), wolframite (used for tungsten), coltan (used for tantalite) and gold. These minerals are primarily mined in the Eastern Congo and sold through a variety of intermediaries who then sell them to international companies. The need for these materials throughout the world has led to extreme fighting over the land these minerals are found on and the minerals themselves. Since these minerals began being mined there have been more than 5.4 million deaths over conflicts in the Congo.
Due to the immense number of conflict related deaths, there have been many international efforts to reduce the trade in conflict resources to attempt to diminish the incentive to mine and fight over these materials. In 2010, President Obama signed the Dodd-Frank Consumer Protection Act which specifically addresses the use and international trade of these minerals. Companies that are subject to the SEC (US Securities and Exchange Commission) are required to disclose whether their products are manufactured using the conflict minerals in association with the DRC Act.
Because of this disclosure, Portland Bolt is sometimes asked whether we are compliant with the Conflict Mineral List. The answer is not technically. We are not on a formal list stating that we do not use any materials made with conflict minerals, however, our products do not contain any conflict materials. Often times we must provide signed documentation stating that our products are free of any conflict minerals. If your project requires materials that are in compliance with the Conflict Mineral List, give Portland Bolt a call. We manufacture all of our products here in-house without the use of any conflict materials.