ensuring that the economic benefits of mining are shared across Manitoba. “Manitoba is in an unprecedented time of exploration – on the cusp of a minerals boom,” says Stacy Kennedy, MAMI’s President. “These projects require incredible development investments and in turn generate significant employment opportunities and other benefits for all Manitobans.” The numbers paint a compelling picture of mining’s impact on the province. Manitoba’s rich deposits of metallic minerals generated $1.1 billion in value, with zinc taking the lead at 35.6%, followed by nickel, copper,and gold.Additionally,the province’s industrial minerals contributed a hefty $287.8 million. The industry is a significant driver of Canada’s mineral production, supplying 37% of the country’s zinc and notable portions of nickel, copper, gold, and silver. Kennedy emphasizes the broader implications of this mineral wealth. “Our key commodities—gold, copper-zinc, nickel, lithium, and rare metals— position Manitoba as a crucial supplier for highdemand resources, especially in the production of solar panels, electric vehicles, and batteries,” she explains.This strategic role is increasingly important in a world pivoting towards renewable energy and sustainable technologies. In 2021, the value of mineral production in Manitoba soared to $862 million, reinforcing the province’s status as a powerhouse in the Canadian mining sector. Beyond the impressive figures, the industry provides rewarding careers to approximately three thousand Manitobans, supporting not just individuals but entire families and communities.The significance of these jobs represents a link between the province’s natural resources and its long-term prosperity. A SHIFT TOWARD SUSTAINABLE MINING The mining industry in Manitoba is undergoing a significant transformation, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological innovation. As global demand for green technologies surges, the sector is increasingly focusing on electrification and achieving net-zero emissions. “Everything that people are doing in the workplace is being improved with the transition to electric vehicles—underground scoop trams, trucks, and personnel carriers,” Kennedy explains. She describes the immediate impact of these advancements, noting, “With these vehicles, there’s no noise, and they are clean with no emissions in our underground work environment.” The transition to electric vehicles in mines enhances worker safety and comfort while significantly reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. Kennedy is particularly enthusiastic about how 55 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 10 MINING ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA
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