Teck Resources Secures Environmental Approval for Highland Valley Copper Mine Extension

Teck Resources has secured environmental approval for its Highland Valley Copper Mine extension project, which is expected to extend the mine's life to the mid-2040s and create approximately 2,900 jobs during construction. The project will contribute significantly to local employment and economic activity, bolstering the North American critical minerals supply chain. Analysts expect a final construction sanction decision in Q3 2025.

Teck Resources Limited has received an Environmental Assessment Certificate from the B.C. Government for its Highland Valley Copper Mine Life Extension (HVC MLE) project. This approval supports extending the life of Canada's largest copper mine, contributing to the North American critical minerals supply chain and enhancing economic activity [1].

The certificate allows Teck to proceed with site preparation and secure additional required permits. A final construction sanction decision by Teck's Board of Directors is expected in the third quarter of 2025 [1]. The project is expected to create approximately 2,900 jobs during the construction phase and support about 1,500 direct jobs and $500 million in annual GDP once operational [1].

The HVC MLE would extend the life of Highland Valley Copper to the mid-2040s, with an average annual production of 137,000 tonnes of copper over the mine's remaining lifespan [2]. The project is part of Teck's broader plan to invest up to $3.9 billion over the next four years, aiming to boost its total copper production to about 800,000 tonnes annually by 2030 [2].

Teck's president and chief executive officer Jonathan Price thanked participants for their "thoughtful assessment" and continued engagement in the project's approval process [2]. The process included input from Indigenous governments, local communities, and stakeholders, marking the first fully integrated review under BC's 2018 Environmental Assessment Act [2].

References:
[1] https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/TECK-RESOURCES-LIMITED-1411898/news/Teck-Resources-Limited-Receives-Environmental-Assessment-Certificate-for-Highland-Valley-Copper-Mine-50275909/
[2] https://www.mining.com/teck-lands-permit-to-extend-life-of-copper-mine-in-bc/