Mining claims have jumped 30% in northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire area since 2022

Mining
Monday, December 11th, 2023 6:51 pm EDT

Key Points

  • Surge in Mining Claims: Mining claims in northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire area have increased by 30% since the previous year, reaching more than 31,000 registered claims covering over 626,000 hectares. This region is considered crucial for Ontario’s electric vehicle battery industry.
  • Lack of Consultation: First Nations communities argue that there has been insufficient consultation about mining projects on their territories. The surge in claims has led to concerns about environmental impact and the rights of Indigenous communities. Rallies by the First Nations Land Defence Alliance at Queen’s Park in Toronto highlight demands for proper consultation.
  • Environmental and Cultural Impact: The Wildlands League, a non-profit conservation group, expresses concern about the environmental impact on globally-significant peatlands, watersheds, and habitats for threatened wildlife. The league advocates for a more thoughtful approach to mining that considers environmentally-sensitive areas and the rights of First Nations communities before companies can stake claims.

Mining claims in the Ring of Fire area in northern Ontario have increased by 30% since the previous year, with over 31,000 registered claims covering more than 626,000 hectares, according to data from Geology Ontario. The region, known for its mineral deposits, is crucial for Ontario’s growing electric vehicle battery industry. However, First Nations communities argue that there has been insufficient consultation on mining projects in their territories. The surge in claims is raising concerns about environmental impact and the rights of Indigenous communities. The Wildlands League is calling for a more responsible mining approach that considers environmental sensitivity and community rights before claims are staked.

For the full original article, please click here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/ring-of-fire-mining-claims-rise-1.7051094