Environmental assessment certificate granted for Highland Valley Copper mine expansion

The B. C. government approved an environmental assessment certificate for Teck Highland Valley Copper Partnership's Highland Valley Copper Mine Life Extension project, allowing operations to continue until 2043. This expansion is projected to produce approximately 900 million tonnes of ore and nearly two million tonnes of copper, contributing significantly to the local economy. The project is expected to add 200 permanent jobs and between 500 and 1,250 jobs during the construction phase.

The ministers, Tamara Davidson and Jagrup Brar, emphasized the importance of balancing economic benefits with environmental protections, resulting in 17 legally binding conditions to mitigate potential adverse effects. The decision followed extensive consultations with First Nations, local governments, and community members, with 10 of the 17 engaged First Nations consenting to the project. A coordinated review process under the 2018 Environmental Assessment Act aims to expedite provincial authorizations, potentially saving up to two years. The ministers noted that while the project would not cause significant new adverse impacts, it could exacerbate existing issues related to water quantity and First Nations' access to land. Permit decisions are anticipated soon as officials work to streamline approvals for critical minerals projects.