The Media Room

2010/66 (a)

Backgrounder

Green Mining Initiative

The Government of Canada recognizes the need for innovative technological solutions to advance sustainable mining. This includes alternative means for waste disposal, reduced water use and protection of air quality at all stages of the mining cycle.

The Green Mining Initiative, announced in May 2009, is a proactive effort by Natural Resources Canada to reduce Canada’s mining footprint by addressing issues such as water quality, waste management and site rehabilitation.

The four pillars of Green Mining are:

  • Footprint reduction;
  • Innovation in waste management;
  • Mine closure and rehabilitation; and,
  • Ecosystem risk management.

The Green Mining Initiative will enhance the industry’s competitiveness by helping to establish leadership in environmental performance and social responsibility. This initiative will also promote the use of science and technology to:

  • reduce the environmental burden of mining for the benefit of future generations;
  • promote a strong, socially responsible economic performance that will help the mining sector support sustainable communities;
  • support effective policy and regulation;
  • develop knowledge and processes, as well as design equipment aimed at stimulating Canadian innovation expertise and export; and
  • promote environmental protection and sustainable resource development in Canada and abroad.

For more information on Natural Resources Canada’s Green Mining Initiatives, visit: www.nrcan.gc.ca.

Media may contact:

Richard Walker

Director of Communications

Office of the Minister

Natural Resources Canada

Ottawa

613-996-2007

or

Media Relations

Natural Resources Canada

Ottawa

613-992-4447

NRCan's news releases and backgrounders are available at www.nrcan.gc.ca/media/index-eng.php.