Companies begin by mapping the geographic footprint of their operations—preferably using polygons for precision. Supporting materials such as biodiversity surveys, Strategic Environmental Assessments, and Biodiversity Action Plans should be compiled to inform later phases.

Using tools like the IBAT Disclosure Report, companies can:

• Identify sites with high biodiversity value or risk.
• Use STAR_T scores to rank sites based on potential impact.
• Consider operational factors such as local capacity, existing partnerships, and internal champions for nature.

Other useful IBAT reports include:

• Proximity Report
• PS6 & ESS6 Report
• Freshwater Report

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Stakeholder mapping is essential to understand local perspectives and inform the definition of the Area of Influence. Companies should consult:

• Indigenous Peoples and local communities
• NGOs and conservation experts
• Government agencies and regulators

Refer to IUCN’s stakeholder engagement guidance for best practices.

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The Area of Influence includes not only the physical footprint of operations, but also adjacent zones affected by emissions, infrastructure, and socio-economic changes. It should be:

• Mapped using GIS polygons where possible
• Informed by landscape features like freshwater catchments
• Divided into sub-polygons for large or ecologically diverse sites

Resources for this step include:

• TNFD Sector Guidance for Metals and Mining
• UNEP-WCMC Technical Briefs

Using the IBAT Species Report (estimated STAR), companies can:

• Identify globally threatened species in each Area of Influence.
• Assess associated threats using the IUCN Threats Classification Scheme.
• Estimate STAR_T scores to understand relative impact.