Title
WCS Canada comments on “Proposed regulations under the Mining Act for recovery of minerals” (ERO number 019-7724)
Author(s)
Constance O'Connor, Meg Southee
Published
2023
Abstract
Our main recommendation for the recovery of minerals is that these operations are held to the same standards as other active mining operations. The recovery of minerals is a promising approach to reduce the environmental impact of the mining industry by meeting the demand for minerals while reducing the need for new mines. However, there are still environmental and health risks associated with various processes used for recovering minerals from tailings. Therefore, there needs to be assurance that there will not be unacceptable environmental and social risk of recovery of minerals, or unacceptable financial liability for the public associated with cleaning up any damages associated with recovering minerals from tailings if companies fail in their obligations for adequate mine closure. We recommend that recovery of minerals from tailings be held to the same standards as other active mining operations, including requiring: 1) Feasible closure plans that minimize environmental, health, and social risks, and meet clear standards for rehabilitation; 2) Assurances that companies will be responsible for the cost of clean-up; and 3) Transparency and accountability in the process of setting and meeting these standards.
Full Citation
WCS Canada comments on “Proposed regulations under the Mining Act for recovery of minerals” (ERO number 019-7724)

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