B.C.’s $8.6-billion mining industry has reason to celebrate Mining Week, May 13-19. Employment, revenue, exports, production and prices are all up over previous years and are in a position to continue rising.
The boom is being fuelled by a global recovery in manufacturing, in particular, the strong demand from Asia.
Mining Week is hosted by the Mining Association of British Columbia, which represents the collective needs of B.C.’s operating coal, metal and mineral mining companies.
Currently, B.C. has nine metal mines and 10 coal mines in operation.
The government’s goal to have eight new mines and nine expansions continues to move forward. The anticipated results are:
* A $1.6-billion increase in annual mine-operation revenue.
* Approximately 2,000 construction jobs.
* 2,000 new direct jobs and 3,000 indirect jobs.
* To sustain 12,500 existing jobs (5,000 direct and 7,500 indirect).
* Over $150 million annually in government revenue.
In addition to the Copper Mountain Mine, which began production last year, two new major metal mines are now under construction and recently two more received permits. Construction for both is scheduled to start later this year. Since the Jobs Plan was announced, the Province has approved five major expansions of existing mines.
Mining is a cornerstone of our economy. It takes place in every region of the province and ranges from small, one-person operations to multi-million dollar-investment projects.
Why Mining Matters:
Every British Columbian uses almost 23,000 kilograms (about 50,000
pounds) of mined products each year. When you brush your teeth, turn on a light, drive a car, ride your bike, put on the television, use a camera or telephone - you are supporting the mining industry.
Mining contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue that help pay for government services like health care and education.
In 2011, more than 29,000 people were employed in B.C.’s mineral exploration, mining and related sectors, mostly in rural British Columbia.