Ontario Introduces Groundbreaking Regulation to Recover Minerals from Mining Waste

Toronto, ON — The Ontario government is taking a significant step toward sustainable mining with the introduction of a new regulation under the Mining Act. This landmark move will enable the recovery of valuable residual metals and minerals from mine waste at operating, closed, or abandoned sites. The initiative, set to launch on July 1, 2025, aims to unlock untapped economic potential, foster innovation, and create jobs while maintaining strict environmental and safety standards.

“This regulation is the first of its kind in Canada and would provide Ontario’s mining sector with new opportunities by helping position the province as a global leader of responsibly sourced metals and minerals,” said George Pirie, Ontario’s Minister of Mines.

Mining waste, such as tailings and waste rock left over from the extraction of metals like nickel, copper, and gold, often contains small amounts of critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt, and platinum. These minerals are essential for modern technologies, from electric vehicle batteries to smartphones and laptops. Historically considered uneconomical to recover, advancements in technology now make their extraction feasible, supporting the province’s Critical Minerals Strategy—a five-year plan to secure a sustainable supply of critical resources.

Today, our government announced a #Mining Act regulation that will make it easier to recover residual metals & minerals from mine waste found at operating, closed or abandoned mines. This amendment will encourage innovation, unlock minerals & create jobs.https://t.co/DdKhegd7BE

— George Pirie (@GeorgePirieMPP) November 29, 2024

The Recovery of Minerals regulation is part of Ontario’s broader Red Tape Reduction package for 2024, which includes over 60 initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth while maintaining high standards of safety and environmental protection. According to Mike Harris, Minister of Red Tape Reduction, the government’s red tape initiatives since 2018 have saved over $1 billion and 1.5 million hours annually, creating a business-friendly environment in Ontario.

“This legislation demonstrates our commitment to fostering innovation and creating opportunities in critical industries like mining,” Harris stated.

The new regulation introduces a streamlined permitting process for recovery projects. It eliminates the need for a full closure plan or mining lease for public land projects, provided operators prepare a Recovery and Remediation Plan. Recovery permit holders will still be required to comply with provincial and federal regulations to ensure public health, safety, and environmental standards are upheld.

“This initiative follows extensive consultations with industry and Indigenous communities and will strengthen Ontario’s position as a world leader in the mining sector, creating jobs, attracting international investment, and driving economic growth,” said Stephen Crawford, Associate Minister of Mines.

By introducing a dedicated regulatory pathway for mineral recovery, Ontario aims to attract international investment and create meaningful opportunities for northern and Indigenous communities. This initiative aligns with the province’s broader goals of economic growth, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that Ontario remains a leader in critical mineral production on the global stage.

For more information, details on the permitting process will be released ahead of the regulation’s implementation next summer.