Mining Month — The Free Press
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Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B1
MINING in the
Elk Valley
A special supplement celebrating the mine industry. Photo courtesy Teck
CC
Clarkson Contracting Ltd.
Celebrating the Mining Industry We specialize in Mine Labour Services, Steam Trucks and Water Trucks.
250.865.4500 info@clarksoncontracting.com
We are proud to support and serve the mine industry in the Elk Valley.
Page B2 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
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We are more than ‘just’ dirt movers or pushers Our equipment is fast becoming more advanced with technology and capabilities. • Integrated intelligent dozers and excavators • Autonomous haulage systems haul trucks • Electrification and trolley-assist equipment We are right there with you, getting that critical equipment to run its best, and allowing you to complete the projects at the lowest production cost. Contact our Elkford branch at 1-250-865-4651 for more information on our products and services.
smsequipment.com
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Elkford Chamber of Commerce
Fernie Chamber of Commerce
Shawna Bryant , Executive Director
Brad Parsell, Director
May Is Mining Month
Each year during the month of May we celebrate Mining Month. It is a time to reflect on the history and benefits that mining has brought to the Elk Valley over the past hundred years or more. Mining has been the key economic driver in our region for generations – bringing with it employment, investment, communitybuilding and development.
A huge thank you to the outstanding mining companies and their employees in and around Elkford for continuing to be a safe place to work and for being major supports to our communities throughout this pandemic. The past year, and the beginning of this year, has been a challenge due to COVID-19 and stopping the spread of this virus, which can’t be an easy feat for many of our mining companies that deal with a high volume of employees each day on premise and for some that come from out of province. Each of our mining industry companies have championed their workers to continue to follow their protocols and guidelines which have kept themselves and our community a safe place to live, work and visit. We have seen our mining industry companies step up for community needs, support and involvement to ensure that programs are still being funded, the health regulations of our town are being met, and that they choose our safety as first priority everyday. Thank you to our mining companies and companies supporting our mining industry for stepping up and helping community organizations, businesses affected by COVID and the town by going above and beyond, we are truly grateful to each of you and each of their employees for the hard work and dedication to keeping us safe and healthy!
Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B3
Teck alone employs over 3,700 people for its Elk Valley operations with over 500 of those employees living in the Fernie area. Over the years, Fernie’s local economy has gradually become more diversified as tourism and small businesses flourish in mining’s wake. While one family member may be attracted to our region for a position at the mines, another member of the family may look to start a new small business or get involved in other ways with our community. Major mining operators in our valley have demonstrated a willingness to give back to the communities where they do business by sponsoring events, local groups, and economic development initiatives. Much of the disposable income earned by workers at the mines makes its way back into our local economy in various ways. This was never more clearly illustrated than during the pandemic, where money was still circulating in our valley despite the hardships faced by other sectors – most notably tourism. The heritage of mining in the Elk Valley is filled with tales of triumph over adversity, innovation, and progress. The direct and indirect benefits to our community are evident all around us. It is impossible to imagine our modern mountain lifestyle here in the Elk Valley without the mining industry. As we look to a new uncertain economic future and recovery from the pandemic, we know that the industry will have a strong continued role to play in our local economy.
Proud supporters of Mining in the Elk Valley
www.bestwester www .bestwesternfer nfernie.com nie.com
Page B4 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Sparwood Chamber of Commerce
Message from Kootenay East MLA
Beverly MacNaughton, Executive Director
Tom Shypitka, MLA Kootenay East May is Mining Month in British Columbia. We recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of mining in our beautiful province. Mining accounts for more than 30,000 jobs in B.C. and has significant impacts on suppliers and service providers in every part of the Province. The mining and mineral exploration sector has always been a significant part of British Columbia’s economy. The industry provides good, family-supporting jobs for people in communities throughout the province. The benefits of mining run deep, for 150 years mining has contributed directly to our province by ways of government revenue. Mining also has intangible impacts as well, most importantly the relationships it fosters. Mining has been a catalyst in bridging truth and reconciliation with First Nations throughout the province. Meaningful partnerships and understanding have been fostered by way of mining projects, especially projects on traditional territories. Benefit agreements are being signed regularly, providing First Nation communities with a voice in environmentally and culturally sensitive projects. Mining has high concentration of Indigenous workers compared to other sectors of our economy and also has promoted and placed women in high profile, corporate leadership positions.
In honour of mining month, we want to highlight our communities that we know and love. We would not be able to accomplish many of the great things we have without the support of Teck. Throughout the years we have tried our absolute best to educate and promote the mining industry with the public, visitors, and our peers. Of course, with the COVID impact, we were not able to do half as much as we have in the past; but we look forward to getting back to it as soon as it’s safe to do so. One of the biggest accomplishments in educating the public, is collaborating with Teck on the “Mine Tours”. We have had such great success with these tours; we have had returning visitors and mine workers families join the tours to see their loved ones hard at work, or to take in a small glimpse of what makes these mines operate 24/7. The summer of 2019, we had 680 people take part in the tours. During the tours we make sure to highlight our history and tell the visitors on how Michel-Natal and Middletown came to be. In lieu of the mine tours, The Sparwood Chamber has also done “Mining Week” which brings in locals and school classes to learn more about our mining industry. We give back to our mine workers and thank them all for their hard work and dedication via a BBQ. In Sparwood, our economy heavily relies on our mining industry and I cannot imagine what would be here today. Through all the trials and tribulations that our ancestors had to endure is truly remarkable.
Thank you to all the workers and admin staff that keeps our families going through the good and bad. Happy Mining Month!
In our efforts moving to a greener tomorrow, mining will be crucial. Critical minerals across BC and Canada are essential for our future and can be secured with competent regulatory processes. BC is rich in resources and the workers in our province extract them better than anyone else in the world. Our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) is better than any other country. BC is poised to be a world leader. We are getting better all the time and will continue to do so. I will continue to work hard to bring a more streamlined permitting process, advocate for more mapping and data collection, with a strong Geoscience program and ensuring BC has sound fiscal policy to allow us to compete on a global scale. Please help me celebrate mining month in BC and to all those people associated directly and indirectly.
Fabrication • Cranes • Repairs • Metal Buildings
Salute to all the mines in the Elk Valley.
Proudly supplying our local area mines. From the staff and management at
Sparwood, BC • 250-425-2119 www.shawsent.com
675 Michel Creek Rd, Sparwood I 250.425.7738 I raycosteel.ca
Shaw’s is a leading supplier for the Mining industry with locations in • Sparwood • Cranbrook • Kamloops • Nisku • Grand Prairie • Fort McMurray
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B5
NEED A LIFT? Leavitt Machinery® is one of the fastest-growing materials handling equipment dealers in North America We pride ourselves on providing a wide variety of equipment options for mining applications. Our full-service branches offer new and used equipment sales, short and long-term rentals, emergency and preventative maintenance, safety training, and parts support. As an industry leader, we believe in providing complete support packages for our customers. From rough terrain forklifts and telehandlers, to straddle carriers and light towers, we’ll help you find the perfect equipment for your site. Featuring leading brands like CAT, Atlas Copco, Combilift, Taylor, Hyundai, JLG, Manitou and more, our equipment is designed to provide exceptional performance every time you need it. We understand that uptime is critical to the success and profitability of mining operations. Contact our team today for more information on our mining equipment lineup. We can also schedule an onsite assessment for most operations. This will ensure that we’re providing you with the best possible fit for your equipment needs.” Photo and information submitted by Leavitt Machinery
NEED A LIFT?
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new
used
1-866-LEAVITT
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Page B6 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
www.thefreepress.ca
Trades programs for women Take a look around you. Unless you’re alone, you probably see someone whose life is impacted in some way by the mining industry. In the Elk Valley – in fact, across the East Kootenay – most of us either work in mining, know someone who does, or has some other personal or professional connection to mining. Maybe it’s someone like Alysha Bushy. Alysha is a Red Seal certified electrician working full time at a Teck Coal mine in the Elk Valley, who got her start close to home. She completed the Electrician foundation program at College of the Rockies, finding it such a positive and motivating experience she was eager to continue her training. “I found all the teachers to be encouraging, while offering a safe place to learn and receive constructive criticism,” she said. “There was another female student in the program, and we developed a great friendship and still keep in touch.” Alysha also had the opportunity to take part in the College’s Mining Apprenticeship Program (MAP). Through this program, she earned her apprenticeship work-based training hours at local mine sites operated by Teck Coal’s Elk Valley Operations, with the College acting as employer-sponsor. Currently less than five per cent of those in the skilled trades identify as female, but that number is continuing to rise as more and more young women discover the joy of stepping away from a desk and exploring a career in the trades. “I think any female who is considering a career in a non-traditional field like the trades should just go for it. It’s been a very positive experience and a time of growth,” Alysha said. “Don’t be scared to reach out to other women who are in the skilled trades. Social media is a great platform to use to communicate and get advice.” One of the ways College of the Rockies is helping women who choose to enter the skilled trades is through the new Women in Trades mentorship program (cotr.bc.ca/women-in-trades) which provides access to support and guidance from experienced tradeswomen. Another support is through scholarships and bursaries, including the Teck Entrance Scholarship for students entering the Heavy Mechanical and Electrician foundation programs. The Teck Scholarship offers six, $2,000 scholarships for two female students, two Ktunaxa Nation members and two other students in either program. Interested students can apply on the College website (cotr.bc.ca/financial-aid) by August 15. Information submitted by College of the Rockies
Proud Supporters of Mining in Our Communities
CELEBRATING MINING Proud Supporters of the Mining Industry in the Elk Valley
250-423-4607 792 2nd Ave., Fernie
250-425-6489 2-101 Red Cedar Dr., Sparwood
Thank you all for shopping local
CRANE SERVICES LTD. 644 Sparwood Drive, Sparwood / 250-425-2713 / pjbcrane.ca / info@pjbcrane.ca
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B7
Sparwood’s famous Titan truck The sight of this colossal truck has been known to silence even the most chatter prone two-year olds, and occasionally even their parents. There’s nothing like it! This truck has to be seen in real life in order to be believed. Built by General Motors of Canada, the 1974 Terex Titan – all 350 tonnes, 66 feet and 3,300 horsepower of it – lives in Sparwood. Two Greyhound buses and 2 pickups can fit into the box, all at once! In 1990 the Titan was retired, it being no longer cost efficient to operate. In the fall of 1994 Elkview Coal Corporation donated the Titan to the Sparwood Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber, with financial assistance from the District of Sparwood, Provincial Government and private donations refurbished the truck to display standard.
The Titan was made possible by the enthusiasm of the people of Sparwood and dedicated volunteers.
Things you should know about the Truck: Height = 6.88m (22’7”) Height with Box Raised = 17.07m (56’) Length = 20.09m (65’11”) Width = 7.57m (24’10”) Weight = 260 tonnes Payload = 350 tonnes
Photo submitted by Sparwood Chamber of Commerce
Recognizing the Mining industRy contRibutoRs in ouR coMMunities May is Mining Month
250-423-4222 Store HourS 1791 9th Ave MoN-FrI 9am-6pm Fernie, BC SAt 9am-5:30pm https://www.canadiantire.ca/en.html canadiantire.ca SuN 9am-5pm
Stay Safe & Healthy. MAXAM EXPLOSIVES INC. 652 Sparwood Dr. Unit B, Sparwood BC 250.410.1088 I www.maxam.net
Page B8 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Electric buses at our Elk Valley mines reduce energy use and emissions
For many people, the decision to purchase an electric vehicle is one of the best ways to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in their personal lives. This decision comes with many questions- how much money will I save? How does it drive in winter? Can I take it on a long road trip?
Think. Do. Become.
WIRELESS SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN The resource and manufacturing sector is changing – get the skills you need to respond. Machine learning and artificial intelligence are rapidly changing the way resource companies operate remote facilities. This two-year Wireless Systems Technician* (WIST) program introduces the skills needed to
TO WORK AS A WIRELESS SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN, YOU SHOULD: y Like to tinker with technology y Have strong critical thinking skills y Have good communication, writing and reading skills y Have a knack for complex problem solving y Exercise sound judgement and decision-making
install, maintain, and repair wired and wireless communications networks and electronics equipment for use in natural resource and manufacturing environments.
SEATS ARE LIMITED! CLASSES START SEPTEMBER. APPLY TODAY!
COTR.CA
If you’ve considered a career in electronics or electronic engineering, this program might be a great option for you!
As Teck begins our journey to decarbonizing our vehicle fleet, we face similar questions about the cost, performance, and maintenance of a zero-emissions vehicle fleet. The rollout of our first two electric crew buses at our steelmaking coal operations will answer these questions, and provide insights into the benefits of integrating electric vehicles into our fleet. Why electrify? Our vehicle fleet, which runs primarily on diesel, generates a significant portion of our total GHG emissions. Low-emissions vehicles present great opportunities to reduce our carbon footprint and take advantage of cost savings and other benefits. For our operations in B.C., Canada, electrifying our vehicle fleet allows us to take advantage of the province’s 95% clean electricity grid and greatly reduce our emissions. As part of our commitment to reducing our emissions and leveraging innovation and technology, Teck introduced two eLion C Series electric buses for crew transport in 2019, in a 12-month pilot project. This represents the first use of electric crew buses in the Canadian mining industry. “The electric buses come with a higher upfront capital cost, but over a 10-12 year lifespan, are expected to have only half the cost of a diesel bus, thanks to savings on fuel and maintenance costs,” said Peter Wan, Lead, Technology and Innovation at Teck. “The electric bus pilot will help prepare us for the challenges of fleet electrification, and allow us to understand and take full advantage of the many opportunities.” How do they perform? The 40-passenger eLion buses replace diesel crew transport buses at our Fording River and Greenhills Operations in the Elk Valley. The GHG reduction of each bus is the equivalent of removing 10 combustion engine cars from the road. On top of reducing emissions, the buses are quieter, offer a smoother ride compared to conventional diesel buses, and produce no harmful exhaust fumes, bringing additional benefits to employees and the community. Manufactured by Lion Electric in Quebec, Canada, the buses are built for operation in the harsh temperature and weather conditions found in the Elk Valley. Each bus is equipped with safety features to reduce snow buildup and fogging around windshields, and automated charging and temperature control removes the need for extended idling and warm-up periods required by diesel buses. The buses are outfitted with high-performance lithium-ion batteries, giving them a range of up to 200 kilometers on a single charge. Opportunities and Challenges of Electrification Decarbonizing our vehicle fleet presents great opportunities, but also new challenges. For example, our teams will need to learn the unique maintenance and charging requirements of the buses. The pilot project will help us gain an on-the-ground understanding of these needs. Lion Electric is providing training to ensure the buses are properly operated and cared for, and to help our drivers use innovative features such as regenerative braking technology. Supporting a Low-Carbon Economy In addition to electric crew buses, Teck is also supporting efforts in the Elk Valley region to increase the adoption of personal electric vehicles. For example, as part of the Accelerate Kootenay’s initiative, in 2019 we provided funding for three fast-charging electric vehicle charging stations in the region.
Learn more about our approach to reducing energy and emissions and Taking Action on Climate Change. Photo and information submitted by Teck
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Teck named to 2021 Global 100 most sustainable corporations list Vancouver, B.C. – Teck Resources Limited (TSX: TECK.A and TECK.B, NYSE: TECK) (“Teck”) has been recognized as one of the 2021 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations by Corporate Knights. “Teck’s inclusion in the 2021 Global 100 list demonstrates the company’s focus on connecting environmental and social responsibility with strong business performance,” said Toby Heaps, CEO of Corporate Knights. “Teck has embedded sustainability throughout its business strategy, and serves as a strong example of a responsible mining company leading the pivot to a low-carbon economy.” “This recognition is driven by our employees whose commitment to sustainability is directly responsible for Teck being named to the Global 100 for the third consecutive year,” said Don Lindsay, President and CEO. “We are focused on responsibly producing the metals and minerals necessary for the transition to a low-carbon economy and for building a better quality of life for people around the world.” The Global 100 companies are selected from all publicly traded companies with annual revenues of $PPP-currency $1 billion or more. Companies were evaluated based on a range of sector-specific sustainability metrics, such as clean revenue percentage, water, energy and carbon productivity, and safety performance, as well as board and executive diversity. More information can be found here: https:// www.corporateknights.com/reports/global-100/. Teck has also been named one of the Best 50 Corporate Citizens by Corporate Knights and is the industry leader in the Metals and Mining industry on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI). Sustainalytics ranks Teck first in the Diversified Metals and Mining category. Teck is also currently listed on the MSCI World ESG Leaders Index, FTSE4Good Index, Bloomberg Gender Equality Index and Jantzi Social Index. Go to www.teck.com/responsibility to learn more about Teck’s commitment to responsible resource development. About Teck Teck is a diversified resource company committed to responsible mining and mineral development with major business units focused on copper, zinc and steelmaking coal, as well as investments in energy assets. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, its shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols TECK.A and TECK.B and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TECK. Learn more about Teck at www.teck.com or follow @TeckResources.
Photo and information submitted by Teck
Proud Of Our Past. Committed To The Future. This Mining Month, Teck is celebrating 50 years of operations at Fording River. Thank you to all those that contributed to this legacy and to those that continue to develop our world-leading practices. Together we can build the future of responsible mining. Learn more at teck.com
Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B9
Most steelmaking coal is mined and used domestically; however, some nations, like Japan and India, do not have sufficient coal supply and Page B10 Thursday, May 13,coal 2021 must import to meet their needs.
COKE OVEN
Mining Month — The Free Press
850 M COKE IRON ORE
STEELMAKING 2016
COAL
2000
LIME STONE
•
Coal is the world’s most plentiful fossil fuel. It is a mineral formed from the Steelmaking coal remains of land-based plants buried hundreds of millions of years ago and production TONNES subjected to intense heat and pressure. Canadian Coal is classified according to the degreeTONNES of transformation of the original steelmaking exports plant material into carbon, moisture content and composition. Today, 7,678 million metric tonnes of coal is produced each year around the world. Canada’s production is approximately 67.1 million tonnes, or 0.87 percent of global While Canada only produces a production. small amount of coal, it is the world’s second overseas coal. While Canada’s Canada is one of about 35 countries thatlargest produces exporter of steelmaking coal, production is relatively small, Canadian coal is highly sought after because only behind Australia of its low sulfur and ash properties, and high caloric value, which STEEL makes it a higher quality coal. Coal has been mined in BC for more than a century. Today, 10 of the 24 Canadian coal mines are located in BC. The coal mined in BC is steelmaking coal, a key ingredient in the production of steel. HOW MUCH GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE 57,976 tonnes The coal shipped through west coast is tonnes a combination of steelmaking WINDterminals TURBINE 142 STEELMAKING and thermal coal.COAL Approximately 65 perCOMPACT cent is CAR used647 forkgsteelmaking and the DOES IT AVERAGE TOproduction. BUILD? REFRIGERATOR 53 kg remainder for TAKE energy
1
MICROWAVE 10 kg
•
1.63 BILLION 55
1 kg by surface mining. Surface mining The majority of Canada’s coal isBICYCLE produced is a temporary use of the land with reclamation (1 tonne = 1,000 kgs) carried out at the same time mining takes place. Once the resource is mined, it is reclaimed with native trees, shrubs and grasses.
•
Coal plays a significant role in the BC economy generating over 26,000 jobs in mining, transport, equipment and other related sectors.
•
In BC, the industry generates $3.2 billion in economic activity each year. For more information on the many economic benefits of Canada’s coal industry, go to the Coal Association of Canada’s
WAS PRODUCED GLOBALLY
THIS REQUIRED
1.26 STEELMAKING COAL BILLION TONNES OF
Most steelmaking coal is mined and used domestically; however, some nations, like Japan and India, do not have sufficient coal supply and must import coal to meet their needs.
770 kg
PERCENT
STEELMAKING COAL
of the steel produced goes to long-life buildings, bridges, transit, ships, railways and other transportation
SINCE 2000 GLOBAL DEMAND FOR STEEL HAS
NEARLY DOUBLED 1.63 B 850 M COKE IRON ORE
2016
Global coal production
LIME STONE
2000
2016
2030
2016
7.27 BILLION 1.07 BILLION 28 MILLION
Steelmaking coal production Canadian steelmaking exports
TONNES
STEEL IS A FUNDAMENTAL TONNES MATERIAL FOR OUR DAILY LIFE communications, TONNES
transport, energy, health, sanitation and food all depend on it.
While Canada only produces a small amount of coal, it is the world’s second largest overseas exporter of steelmaking coal, only behind Australia
January 2018
Courtesy of coalalliance.ca
HOW MUCH STEELMAKING COAL DOES IT TAKE TO BUILD?
1.63 BILLION 55 TONNES OF STEEL
WAS PRODUCED GLOBALLY
THIS REQUIRED
1.26 STEELMAKING COAL BILLION TONNES OF
1
STEEL
PERCENT
of the steel produced goes to long-life buildings, bridges, transit, ships, railways and other transportation
STEEL IS 100% RECYCLABLE
Growing global demand for infrastructure, transportation and equipment exceeds recycled steel supply by 2/3, requiring sustained sources of new steel (and steelmaking coal)
GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE 57,976 tonnes WIND TURBINE 142 tonnes AVERAGE COMPACT CAR 647 kg REFRIGERATOR 53 kg MICROWAVE 10 kg BICYCLE 1 kg (1 tonne = 1,000 kgs)
As we celebrate BC Mining Month 2021, we recognize the crucial role mining has in our communities here in Kootenay East. Thank you to all involved in this modern and ever innovating industry.
2.30 B
COKE OVEN
Growing global demand for infrastructure, transportation Canada’s steelmakingand coal is in extremely equipmenthigh exceeds recycled demand becausesteel it is high grade bituminous hardsustained coking coal – some of supply by 2/3, requiring the highest quality coal available sources of new steelof(and steelmaking coal)
TONNE
•
TONNES
A NECESSARY INGREDIENT IN TONNES OF STEEL THE PRODUCTION OF STEEL
BLAST FURNACE
•
7.27 1.07 BILLION 28 MILLION BILLION
TONNE
•
2016
BLAST FURNACE
•
production
2030
METRIC TONNES
2016
Did you know…? Global coal
METRIC TONNES
Coal Basics
Canada’s steelmaking coal is in extremely high demand because it is high grade bituminous hard coking coal – some of the highest quality of coal available
www.thefreepress.ca
2.30 B
1.63 B
STEEL IS A FUNDAMENTAL MATERIAL FOR OUR DAILY LIFE
Causeway Bay
communications, transport, energy, health, sanitation and food all depend on it.
Hotel & Conference Centre O F F E R I N G D I S C O U NTS AN D P R O M OT I O N S F O R R E S E R VAT I O N S C A L L O R E M A I L 250-425-2003 C A U S E WAY F R O N T D E S K @ G M A I L . C O M
Gateway Restaurant & Rockies Lounge O F F E R I N G D A I LY S P E C I A L S O P E N M O N D AY TO F R I D AY F R O M 4 P M TO 9 P M C A L L TO P L A C E YO U R O R D E R 250-425-2003
Office: (250) 417-6022 Email: tom.shypitka.MLA@leg.bc.ca
January 2018
Vi s i t o u r We b s i t e : w w w. c a u s e w a y b a y h o t e l s p a r w o o d . c a Follow Us On Facebook & Inst agram Facebook: Causeway Bay Hotel & Conference Centre Instagram: causewaybayhotelandrestaurant
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Mining Month — The Free Press
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Coal:
Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B11
CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Globally and here at home, steel is used to build
Globally and here at home, steel is used to build critical infrastructure such as housing, hospitals and bridges.
How We Use It such as housing, critical infrastructure hospitals and bridges.
Coal is a key ingredient in the production of steel Steel goes into almost everything we touch and use every day, from cell phones and tablets, to fridges and stoves. TRANSPORTATION
We are proud to support and serve the mining industry TRANSPORTATION in the Elk Valley
Steel is used to help build our transit networks.
Steel is used to help build our transit networks.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE:
30,000 to tonnes Thermal 630 coalkilograms is burned in power plants produce electricity. Four out of every of steelmaking coal istodayof– steelmaking coal was used to build ten people on the planet most in developing nations – depend on EXPORTS required to produce an the–new Canada Line rapid system source thermal coal to produce electricity as an affordable andtransit dependable of power.Richmond & Vancouver. average-sized car. connecting BY Canada 2020, THEisWORLD’S ELECTRICITY IS ANTICIPATED TO BE FROM THE the third largest 89% of Canadian steelmaking FOLLOWING SOURCES: coal comes from B.C. exporter of steelmaking 38% coal coal after Australia 27% renewables Japan & South Korea consumed 20% natural gas share of B.C.’s total the largest and the United States. 12% nuclear steelmaking coal exports, however 3% oil China’s demand for B.C. coal CANADA is on the rise.
GREEN ENERGY
AUSTRALIA
Steel and steelmaking coal play a critical role in the production of green energy technology. Wind turbines, solar panels, tidal power & bio-energy systems all rely on steelmaking coal to help bring sustainable and renewable energy to the world.
Thermal coal is used in the production of energy.
required to produce an average-sized car.
the new Canada Line rapid transit system connecting Richmond & Vancouver.
We believe it takes a team to make our business ‘Above and Beyond’ from our operators, to office staff, to supervisors, management and shareholders.
Everyone working at TMM is important to our success. GREEN ENERGY
USA
40% of the world’s population relies on coal for daily energy
Putting the Focus Back on Exceptional Service with 630 kilograms 30,000 tonnes First Nations of steelmaking coal is of steelmakingCommitment coal was used to build
Steel and steelmaking coal play a critical role in the production of green energy technology. Wind turbines, solar panels, tidal power & bio-energy systems all rely on steelmaking coal to help bring sustainable and renewable to the world. 701 energy Douglas Fir, Sparwood BC 778.521.5144
www.transcendentmining.com
Coal generates... 41%
of the worlds electricity
30%
of global primary
4 out of every 10 energy needs people on the planet today rely on thermal 70% coal to produce of the worlds electricity. steel production Globally, coal is an important necessary resource role that provides Thermal coal and plays a critical in thenumerous benefits to the world around us. production of affordable and dependable
POWERING & BUILDING THE WORLD
Coal a critical element in the production of steel, which is used to deliver the goods and services our power throughout the world. societies need and rely on in everyday life – healthcare, telecommunications, improved agricultural practices, REDUCING POVERTY transportation networks, clean water and accessistocreated reliable and affordable energy. Today, the world’s electricity from the following sources: Steel plays a critical role in green energy production. Whether it is a wind turbine, solar panel, tidal power system or bio-energy infrastructure – it all requires steel. For example, 100 tonnes of steelmaking coal is billion currently required1.3 to produce thepeople 185 tonnesare of steel used in a typical wind turbine. Coal also provides much-needed energy for heat, light access and other daily necessities for 40 percent of the world. without to electricity.
42% Coal
21% Natural Gas The coal exported from is aof combination of steelmaking Without asBC part the energy mix, these and thermal coal from mines in Canada and 15% coal Hydroelectric the United States. We are proud be an important economic people will needlessly remain in poverty. driver in our province. 14% Nuclear 42% COAL Courtesy of coalalliance.ca 5% Oil 3% Renewables
Thermal coal plays a critical role in the production of affordable and dependable power throughout the world. Today, the world’s electricity is created from the following sources:
42% Coal
21% Natural Gas 15% Hydroelectric 14% Nuclear 5% Oil 3% Renewables
42% COAL
Page B12 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
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Budget 2021 misses opportunity to accelerate British Columbia’s economic recovery and advance province’s low-carbon advantage through responsible mining Vancouver, BC – Budget 2021 is missing a significant opportunity to accelerate BC’s economic recovery, create new jobs and improve the BC mining sector’s ability to provide low carbon minerals and metals the world needs to transition to a cleaner, low-carbon future, according to the Mining Association of BC (MABC). MABC recently called upon the Province to provide additional funding for regulatory authorities to enhance their capacity to conduct more timely reviews and authorizations for a number of new mines and mine expansions that are close to making Final Investment Decisions (FIDs). Currently, regulators are occupied with the day-to-day permitting requirements of the province’s 14 operating mines. “New mines and mine expansions offer a timely opportunity to accelerate our province’s economic recovery and create new jobs, especially for local and Indigenous communities,” said Michael Goehring, President and CEO of MABC. “However, without a modest budget lift within authorization ministries, potential permitting delays could extend a project’s FID beyond the current, favourable commodity cycle, missing the opportunity to help our economy grow and create high-paying jobs, when British Columbians need them most.” Budget 2021 also missed the opportunity to change the carbon tax and level the playing field for BC’s mining sector and other trade exposed industries relative to other provincial and global competitors. The provincial government’s Mining Jobs Task Force in 2018 identified the carbon tax as the single greatest barrier to the
BC mining sector’s ability to compete and succeed in global markets. “BC has some of the lowest GHG emitting mines and smelters in the world. Our industry supports carbon pricing as we continue to further reduce our GHG emissions. However, under BC’s carbon pricing system, our mines and workers are at a significant disadvantage relative to our provincial and global competitors. We need to level the playing field and we urge the provincial government to adopt the federal government’s backstop and output-based pricing system,” Goehring stated. “Budget 2021 goes a long way to support British Columbians impacted by COVID-19. However, policy makers must strengthen the competitive position of mining to create high paying jobs, revenue for health and social programs, and deliver the low-carbon minerals and metals needed to reach our Paris Agreement GHG targets,” said Goehring. About the Mining Association of British Columbia MABC is the voice of British Columbia’s steelmaking coal, metal and mineral producers, smelters and advanced development companies. Our industry benefits all British Columbians and supports more than 35,000 jobs and over 3,700 small, medium and indigenous affiliated businesses in every corner of the province through an annual spend of nearly $3 billion on goods and services. Our members’ products have among the lowest carbon footprints globally and are helping the world transition to a cleaner, low-carbon future; safely, responsibly, and sustainably. Information submitted by MABC
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Mining Month — The Free Press
www.thefreepress.ca
Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B13
Mining industry foundational to province Each May, the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC) celebrates Mining Month. In light of COVID-19 and social distancing, there won’t be gatherings, or site tours, or a personal favourite – golf tournaments. Although we cannot gather together safely, we still encourage everyone to take a moment to pause and celebrate the contribution mining has given to our quality of life, like the many products used in our daily lives to the family-supporting wages earned by over 600,000 across Canada. The Elk Valley has a rich mining history. We see it all around us, from the miners’ walk at Fernie city hall to the Titan in Sparwood, welcoming travellers to the Elk Valley. History books call Fernie the new Pittsburgh of the north, hailing it as a steel town. Alongside the growth of our mining sector came the development of the Elk Valley as a great recreational destination. The mining and recreation in the valley have come to co-exist in balance, offering us great
jobs in a beautiful place to live and play. North Coal is a new mine operator developing the Michel Coal Project. Building a new mine from scratch is a unique opportunity to set ourselves up for success and invest in the best technology and techniques to protect water and reduce emissions. With a century of mining knowledge behind us, we are combining lessons learned with proven technologies around water, reclamation, energy consumption and more to build a better mine. It is a mine that considers this and the next generations’ use of the land. The Ktunaxa Nation has contributed traditional knowledge to the project baseline studies and potential impacts. North Coal has also worked closely with the Ktunaxa on goals for the land after mining is complete. BC’s mining industry is foundational to the province. It will continue to play a critical role in our province’s growth (and economic recovery). Over 10,000 individuals are directly employed by mining, and over 30,000 indirectly employed. It creates more than $12 billion in economic activity with direct payments to the government to support healthcare, education, and public services. These past 12 months have reminded us of how connected we are. We are all global citizens, and our actions impact others. Thankfully, with a tough, disruptive year behind us, 2021 already feels hopeful and full of energy to build and rebuild. Emerging from COVID-19 looks different for everyone and will have distinctive impacts on developed and developing countries. Mining in the Elk Valley will be an important piece of our community, province, and country’s economic recovery.
Photo and information submitted by North Coal
Celebrating the BC Mining Industry Over 12,000 members of IUOE Local 115 are proud to recognize their essential contribution to our province’s economy.
Celebrating Mining Month North Coal is proud to be part of an industry providing more than 30,000 jobs across British Columbia.
District 6 Office 103 Centennial Square, Sparwood, BC
i u o e 1 1 5 . c a
Rob Foskett, Business Representative 250-425-2161
info@northcoal.ca | 778.518.0775 northcoal.ca
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Mining Week ~ May 8 to 14
THE FREE PRESS, Thursday, May 12, 2011
Page B14 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
www.thefreepress.ca
1898 1898
Coal Coal The Early Years The Early Years
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1962 1962
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Photoscourtesy courtesyofofthe theFernie Fernie and and District District Historical Photos HistoricalSociety Society. For information visit the museum at For information visit the museum at 491 Victoria Victoria Avenue 362B Avenue (2nd (2nd Avenue), Avenue),Fernie Fernie, Ferniemuseum.com ~ info@ferniemuseum.com www.ferniemuseum.com ~ email history@ferniemuseum.com or or call call250-423-7016 250-423-7016
Mining Month — The Free Press
B.C.’s mining leaders recognized with annual safety awards Mining companies with the best records in health and safety measures for B.C. workers in 2020 were recognized by the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation at the virtual 59th annual Mine Safety Awards.
Thursday, May 13, 2021 Page B15
WE’RE MINING BETTER
TOGETHER
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“Our government and the mining sector in B.C. take worker safety very seriously. We want all workers to return home healthy and safe at the end of the day,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “While mining is one of the safest heavy industries in B.C., we know that there is always more that we can do, as accidents happen. These awards give us a chance to recognize the efforts that these companies are making every day to protect their workers.” The Mine Safety Awards were first presented in 1961 by the Province and occur annually to recognize mines and quarries that have accumulated 15,000 or more worker hours with the lowest injury frequency rate in the previous calendar year. The awards reaffirm the provincial government’s commitment to prioritizing health and safety in mining and mineral exploration. The companies recognized for 2020 are considered leaders in workplace safety in B.C. and include Sandhill Materials Inc, Mainland Construction Materials and Ward Road Quarry winning the Stewart/O’Brian Award, which is presented to mines with the lowest injury frequency rate between 35,000 and 200,000 worker hours. Conuma Coal Resources Ltd.’s Brule Mine won the Edward Prior Award, which is presented to the mines with the lowest injury-frequency rate for mines between 200,000 and one million worker hours. The awards coincide with the proclamation of May as Mining Month in British Columbia, which recognizes the role mining plays in British Columbia and the critical contribution it makes to the provincial economy and to communities and families. “British Columbia’s mining sector is a recognized leader in health and safety practices,” said Michael Goehring, president and CEO of the Mining Association of BC. “Our strong health and safety culture and the industry’s collective commitment to protect workers helps ensure everyone goes home safe to their loved ones and families at the end of each day. Congratulations to this year’s Mine Safety Awards winners.”
Mining accounts for more than 30,000 jobs in B.C. and has significant indirect impacts on suppliers and service providers in every part of the Province. The mining and mineral exploration sector has always been a significant part of British Columbia’s economy, providing good, familysupporting jobs for people in communities throughout the province. Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation
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Page B16 Thursday, May 13, 2021
Mining Month — The Free Press
www.thefreepress.ca
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