MAC awarded for GHG emissions work

The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) has received an award for its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The award was presented at a ceremony in Ottawa by the Voluntary Challenge and Registry, which documents voluntary greenhouse gas emissions and reductions.

“The MAC is proud to be recognized for leadership in this important arena,” said Warren Holmes, MAC spokesman and senior vice-president of Canadian mining operations for Falconbridge. “This award is a tribute to MAC’s hard work in support of its members’ efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while continuing to increase productivity.”

The association has developed several publications which address environmental concerns, including Global Climate Change — Taking Action, Strategic Planning and Action on Climate Change — A Guide for Canadian Mining Companies, and a study of energy consumption in large underground and open-pit mines.

From 1990 to 1999, the metal mining sector decreased its energy consumption by 25.6% and improved its energy per unit of metal concentrate by 8.2%. Over the same period, the non-ferrous metal smelting and refining sector increased its energy consumption by 2.8% but improved its energy per unit of refinery output by 11.9%.

As well, the metal mining sector reduced its total GHG emissions by 24.7%, while improving GHG emissions per unit of metal concentrate by 13.8%. During the same period, the non-ferrous metal smelting and refining sector decreased GHG emissions by 1.8%.