Summary
We are seeking corporate, community and Indigenous funding and in-kind partners for the next phases of this program, with potential benefits including early data access and direct input into future research. To set up a meeting or for more information, email info@geosciencebc.com. (Subject: Interest in Geoscience BC Critical Minerals and Metals in BC Mine Tailings and Waste Rock program)
The transition to a net-zero emissions economy requires significant inventories of critical minerals and metals. This demand is driving innovative approaches to geoscience research and to mineral exploration and development. Tailings and waste rock from current and legacy mining operations in British Columbia may host economic concentrations of critical minerals and metals which could provide a boost to local economies.
The multi-phase Critical Minerals and Metals in British Columbia Mine Tailings and Waste Rock program aims to assess tailings and waste rock to highlight opportunities to extract further value from these mining by-products and address potential environmental liabilities.
The first phase is collating and completing a high-level inventory of existing geological and geochemical data related to current and legacy sites across the province and linking it with key information such as infrastructure. Later phases will include laboratory and field-scale studies at select locations.
The program will provide industry, communities and Indigenous groups with key data to inform decision-making and guide actions around investment in critical mineral exploration and development.
The first phase research funders are Foresight Canada, Arca Climate, New Gold Inc. and Geoscience BC, with in-kind support from the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation’s Abandoned Mines Branch. The Association for Mineral Exploration and Mining Association of BC (MABC) have encouraged the program and Geoscience BC is working with industry, academic, Indigenous and other partners to secure further support for future research.