Providing Critical Materials for a Low-Carbon Future
Mining is a cornerstone of BC's economy, supporting economic growth and community development. The BC Net Zero Innovation Network (BCNZIN)'s Mining Cluster connects the sector with innovations to cut emissions, reduce waste, and create sustainable jobs—positioning BC as a global leader in the net zero transition.
With abundant mineral resources, an established mining infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, BC plays a critical role in Canada's mining industry. While efforts to incorporate clean technologies into the sector are underway, much work remains.
How We’re Decarbonizing BC’s Mining Sector:
- Driving mineral processing innovation for sustainable development
- Unlocking the potential of critical minerals for a clean energy future
- Managing carbon emissions through CCUS, electrification, and life cycle emissions reduction
- Advancing regulatory innovation to streamline sustainable practices
- Collaborating with Indigenous Peoples to create inclusive opportunities
- Shaping the workforce of the future to meet industry demands
Why It Matters
In 2022, British Columbia's mining sector contributed approximately CAD $18B to BC’s economy—a 40% increase from the previous year. BC has 16 of Canada’s 31 critical minerals and is Canada’s largest copper and only molybdenum producer—minerals essential to electrifying our global economy. However, Canada’s ability to supply carbon-neutral critical minerals to the cleantech sector depends on transforming how mines operate.
Transitioning operational and planned mines to sustainable, carbon-neutral, or carbon-negative energy systems will be pivotal in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts are crucial for achieving BC’s CleanEnergy emission reduction targets. The BCNZIN Mining Cluster is committed to helping BC's mining sector decarbonize, fostering increased productivity, environmental progress, and economic resilience.
The BCNZIN Mining Cluster convenes some of the top minds in mining decarbonization in British Columbia. This group provides a unique and necessary perspective on how the province can move forward to tackle the interwoven challenges of mineral development, economic competitiveness, and reducing industrial emissions.
Chris Tucker Corporate Innovation Manager, Skeena Resources
What We Offer
Capital Attraction & Matchmaking
Connecting mining initiatives with funding opportunities.
Innovation Challenges & Scouting
Identifying and piloting cutting-edge solutions.
Business Feasibility Studies
Evaluating opportunities for commercial success.
Project Management
Facilitating impactful initiatives from concept to execution.
Market & Industry Research
Providing data-driven insights to inform decision-making.
Events & Consultations
Creating opportunities to learn, connect, and collaborate.
Join a Working Group
Our Working Group Membership includes access to industry-led focus areas, affordable industry research, project development services, a network of participating organizations, and proportionate cost-sharing of initiatives among working group members.
If a working group isn’t the right fit for you, stay connected by subscribing to the BCNZIN newsletter to receive updates on upcoming events, networking opportunities, and advancements in BC’s cleantech ecosystem.
Be part of the movement driving sustainability and innovation in British Columbia. Take the next step and help shape a net zero future.
Mining Technology Ecosystem Map
Your Essential Guide to Mining Technology in Canada
Canada’s Ventures to Value Chains: Mining Technology report is part of a Foresight initiative that leverages data from technology companies and other key stakeholders to map, categorize, and analyze strategically important industry value chains for Canada in the clean economy.
Want to learn more? Download the detailed value chain report.
BCNZIN News
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![BC Cleantech Awards Now Accepting Nominations]()
January 13, 2025 Article BC Cleantech Awards Now Accepting Nominations Since 2020, Foresight has celebrated excellence in BC’s cleantech ecosystem through these awards, showcasing companies and organizations that are driving both economic growth and impactful innovation. We are excited to continue this initiative with the 2025 BC Cleantech Awards. View Article -
![Lignin Forest Bioeconomy - Case Study]()
December 17, 2024 Report Lignin Forest Bioeconomy - Case Study Explore opportunities for sustainable innovation, economic growth, and emissions reduction in BC’s forest bioeconomy through the BCNZIN Lignin Project. View Report -
![Honouring Indigenous Leadership on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation]()
September 30, 2024 Article Honouring Indigenous Leadership on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation As we work towards net zero for generations to come, it's crucial that we recognize the invaluable generational knowledge of Indigenous communities, and together build meaningful partnerships that safeguard our shared environment for future generations. View Article
Our Partners
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support from Pacific Economic Development Canada, as well as support from the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation.
