One of the largest mining companies in the world, Australia-based BHP, announced April 5 that it would remain a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce despite continuing disagreement on climate issues.

Among the "material differences" with the Chamber: BHP supports the 2015 Paris Agreement to set targets for reducing carbon emissions, and also supports putting a price on carbon.

BHP said in a news release that the company derives a range of benefits from the Chamber's activities, particularly advocacy on economic issues such as free trade. The Chamber has also been willing to engage further on climate and energy issues, and invited the company to join its Energy and Environment Committee.

"BHP will work with the Chamber and its wider membership on the direction of the Chamber's climate and energy policy, by actively participating in the Chamber's Energy and Environment Committee," the release said.

BHP undertook a review last year of its positions on climate and energy policy compared with those of 21 associations around the world. The review found "material differences" with three organizations: the U.S. Chamber, the World Coal Association and the Minerals Council of Australia.

BHP is staying in the Minerals Council of Australia. MCA recently released updated positions on energy and policy aligning with BHP's approach, the statement said.

But the April 5 announcement confirmed BHP's intention to end its membership in the World Coal Association, citing the policy disagreements along with limited benefits of membership.

The London-based WCA released a statement expressing disappointment and bewilderment with BHP's decision.

"BHP is one of the world's largest exporters of coal. We have compared our position on energy and climate policies with those set out in BHP's Industry Association Review, and believe there are no material differences between the two," said Benjamin Sporton, CEO of the WCA, in a statement.

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