GEOM 5903 Seminar: Rachel Godinho
GEOM 5903 Seminar: Rachel Godinho
Title: Mining the Golden Triangle: Trouble for Transboundary Waters
Location & Time: Huggins Science Hall, Room 336 (or 324), 4:00 p.m.
Abstract:
The term Golden Triangle describes an area of numerous mineral deposits in northwestern British Columbia. The area is thought to hold an estimated 204 billion dollars’ worth of mineral value. Currently, exploration focuses on gold and copper projects; however, other commodities such as silver and nickel also attract interest as critical elements which are necessary for the transition into “clean energy” and a “low-carbon” economy. Mining operations and the construction of supporting infrastructure add jobs and fuel the economy, attracting investors and paying dividends to local communities. Additionally, as glaciers retreat, more mineral deposits are being uncovered yearly, adding exponentially more value to the region.
However, the environmental toll of mining in the Golden Triangle cannot be ignored. The contamination of the Stikine and Taku rivers (and its fish!) is a leading concern of First Nations and fishing communities. More specifically, these rivers’ ecosystems are threatened by heavy metal contamination, acid mine drainage, pollution from processing chemicals, and erosion. Moreover, these rivers are transboundary, adding a layer of complexity. They are under the jurisdiction of three levels of government on both sides of the border. The American, Canadian, B.C., Alaskan and Indigenous governments must not only balance mineral resource development with the conservation of water bodies, but also cooperate with each other despite conflicting values and priorities.
Technology has advanced; many mining corporations generate positive economic impact while upholding responsible mining practices. However, mining the Golden Triangle places undeniable risk to the ecological integrity of its transboundary waters and resources begging the question: is this risk acceptable?