Building the Resilient Mine of Tomorrow: Climate Change Adaptation from Design to Closure

The mining industry, like all other industrial sectors, will be exposed to the impacts of climate change. In recent years, researchers have examined the risks and vulnerabilities of the mining sector in relation to a changing climate. The objective of this presentation is to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the mining sector and climate change across all stages of the mining life cycle. We will then discuss ongoing efforts to help the mining industry incorporate climate change considerations into its practices and decision-making.

Mining infrastructure is already designed to withstand Québec’s demanding climate conditions. However, changing climate conditions raise a new question: How can design criteria be adapted when future conditions exceed the historical assumptions used for this purpose?

This presentation, jointly delivered by Arianne Phosphate and CIMA+, outlines a practical approach to turning climate risk assessments into engineering design decisions. Conducted as part of the environmental impact study for Arianne Phosphate’s mining project, the analysis draws on guidance from the MELCCFP, the MRNF and Ouranos, as well as ISO 14090, 14091 and 31000 standards, to evaluate climate risks across all project infrastructure, from construction through to site reclamation.

Beyond identifying risks, the presentation will show how the analysis results can be used to revise the design parameters of several critical pieces of infrastructure. Attendees will see how projections for extreme heat, intense precipitation, freeze-thaw cycles, forest fires and other climate hazards can influence the sizing of water management works, electrical infrastructure, roads, industrial buildings, mechanical systems and permanent reclamation infrastructure.

Drawing on this case study, the speakers will share key lessons learned from this process and demonstrate how adaptation to climate change can become true design input, helping enhance the resilience, safety and long-term sustainability of future mining projects.

Climate change is altering operating conditions at mine sites, requiring continuous reassessment of risks, infrastructure and environmental management strategies. This presentation by Glencore Canada will address how adaptation to climate change can be integrated into the operations phase, drawing on examples from different geographic and operational contexts.

In the Arctic, the Raglan tailings pond is being studied to better understand the risks associated with permafrost thaw and their potential effects on physical stability, geochemical behaviour and long-term facility management.

In Québec’s Middle North, observed and anticipated changes in precipitation patterns also pose challenges for hydraulic capacity, water management and the performance of tailings ponds at Matagami and the Horne smelter.

In British Columbia, the example of the Brenda Mine reservoir will illustrate the role of mining water management infrastructure in protecting communities during extreme events, including atmospheric rivers.

The presentation will conclude by addressing the contribution of Canadian smelters and refineries to global greenhouse gas emission reduction, presenting the relative footprint of copper and zinc processing in Québec and nickel in Sudbury compared to other international processing options.

Resilient mining and metallurgy sectors can contribute to climate change adaptation, emission reduction and the protection of local territories and communities.