Mining Law Reform and Water Sustainability in B.C.

Date: October 31st, 2019

*Due to a technical error, part of Calvin Sandborn’s presentation was not recorded. If you would like to know more about the BC Mining Law Reform recommendations related to water protection please download the reports.*

Mining has a long history in Canada, and it continues to play an important role in many communities across the country. Mining can, however, also cause catastrophic and long-lasting impacts to fish, water, wildlife, and human health. Even as the industry has expanded its footprint and embraced new technologies, mining laws have changed little since the “Wild West” days. It has become clear that regulatory systems for mining are in urgent need of comprehensive reform.

This webinar explores the challenges and opportunities for reforming mining laws in Canada, with a particular focus on British Columbia and the impacts of mining on fresh water. The speakers explain how stronger safeguards can ensure that the right mines are built in the right locations at the right scale—and with local consent.

SPEAKERS
Nikki Skuce
(Director, Northern Confluence)

Calvin Sandborn (Legal Director, Environmental Law Centre, University of Victoria)

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Hosted since 2010 by the POLIS Water Sustainability Project at the Centre for Global Studies, University of Victoria, the Creating a Blue Dialogue webinar series brings together expert water practitioners and thinkers, as well as emerging water leaders, to engage with innovative ideas on water policy and governance in Canada. By creating an online community of interest, the series strengthens the national capacity to engage with and solve problems, and raises awareness about emerging Canadian water issues, best practices, and policies.