Rio Tinto plc is a global leader in the mining and processing of essential minerals and metals, including iron ore, aluminium, copper, and various other minerals. Founded in 1873 and headquartered in London, UK, the company operates a diverse range of mining and processing activities. These include iron ore mining in Western Australia, bauxite mining and aluminium smelting, copper mining that also yields gold, silver, and molybdenum, as well as the mining and processing of borates and titanium dioxide feedstock. Rio Tinto is also involved in diamond mining and the development of battery materials like lithium.