Abstract

As global demand for critical minerals increases to facilitate the energy transition the challenge of developing these under a modern sustainable framework and through the current geopolitical context has become a top priority for Canada’s mining industry. Members of the proposed panel, with executives from Dumont Nickel, Lomiko, Rio Tinto, and Winsome, are at the forefront of integrating sustainability strategies into new mine developments and existing mining operations. The panelists will share their insights, experiences, and future plans on how Canada can meet the growing need for critical minerals—such as lithium, nickel, and rare earth elements— in striving to meet the highest standards of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

The candid discussion will focus on the complexities of addressing the challenges they face in meeting the demands of a broad range of stakeholders. Key themes include the role of mining in the energy transition and energy security and the need to adapt to changing contexts, the “need-to-haves" vs “nice-to-haves" for sustainable project development, opportunities for new infrastructure in remote regions and the role of local indigenous communities. It will explore the need for innovation to address evolving market conditions through drawing on the panelist's own journeys. Panelist`s experience “from the field” will be central to the discussion, including how mining companies can balance shareholder expectations with local indigenous and community interests, building lasting, trust-based relationships in turbulent times.

Panelist will be asked to touch on the adoption of low-carbon technologies with perspectives how a mine might become both nature positive and carbon negative while balancing new challenges associated with access to electricity. Broader sustainability strategies planned or in place will be explored along advice on addressing key challenges and how these can be turned into opportunities. This includes navigating Canada’s evolving regulatory landscape as well as how to strong partnerships with Indigenous communities, local stakeholders, and governments.