Teck Wins Enviro Nod to Extend Life of Canada’s Largest Copper Mine

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Canadian miner Teck Resources has secured an environmental assessment certificate from the British Columbia (BC) government to expand the operations of its Highland Valley copper mine into the mid 2040s.

The certificate allows the company to begin site preparation work and proceed with efforts to secure additional permits, while a final construction sanction decision from the miner's board is expected in the third quarter.

“This positive decision by the government of BC will support extending the life of Canada’s largest copper mine, strengthening the North America critical minerals supply chain and contributing to jobs and economic activity,” said Teck president and CEO Jonathan Price. “This is an important step forward that positions the project for a final construction sanction decision in the near term.”

Teck expects the Highland Valley expansion project to generate about 2 900 jobs during construction. Once operational, the extended life of the mine will sustain about 1 500 direct jobs and contribute about C$500-million a year to GDP.

The environmental assessment included engagement with Indigenous governments, local communities, and stakeholders. Price thanked all parties for their “thoughtful assessment” and ongoing feedback during the review process.

Courtesy: www.miningweekly.com