The Yukon Government released for consultation its strategy for climate change, energy, and a green economy in the coming decade. Titled Our Clean Future, it sets a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, compared to emissions in 2010.
“Over the next several months, we will also work with industry to set an intensity-based target for mining that will see our mines produce fewer emissions of greenhouse gases across their lifecycle for every kilogram or kilotonne of material produced,” the paper states.
“This intensity-based target will encourage industry to look for innovative ways to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions from mining, regardless of how many or few mines are in operation at any time.”
Ranj Pillai, minister of energy, mines, and resources said mines should now ideally be powered by renewable energy sources to achieve the emissions targets specified in the strategy, according to YUKON NEWS.
However, about 93% of the power consumed at on-grid mines such as Victoria Gold’s Eagle mine as well as the Minto mine was green, because of hydro-electric supply, he said.
What about upcoming off-grid mining projects such as Coffee, Kudz Ze Kayah and the Casino projects, which would use fossil energy?
Pillai said the policy on these projects is under consideration, including whether it is feasible to lay further transmission lines.
Read the YUKON NEWS article HERE.
Image Source of Yukon, Canada: Pixabay