N.S. shakes up requirements for metal mines in bid to speed up approvals

Nova Scotia Environment Minister Tim Halman recently announced significant changes to the regulatory requirements for metal mining projects in the province. These changes come after years of requests from the mining industry and are part of the government’s larger plan to boost resource development in Nova Scotia.

At a news conference, Halman emphasized the importance of balancing strong environmental protection, economic opportunity, and regulatory clarity. He stated that these priorities must work together harmoniously in Nova Scotia.

The Department of Environment, led by Halman, is streamlining the application process for industrial approvals for metal mining projects. Specifically, 15 requirements have been removed from the initial application, including noise and air emissions monitoring plans, submission of reclamation securities, and signed authorization from landowners. These requirements have not been eliminated but will now be conditions of industrial approval, with deadlines set at various stages of construction and operation.

Janet MacKinnon, the executive director of sustainability and applied science, described the new approach as “phased,” aimed at expediting the process for mining companies. She explained that companies often wait months or even years between receiving industrial approval and commencing construction, so the streamlined process will only require necessary information when it is relevant to the specific phase of the project.

Metal mining projects in Nova Scotia undergo a Class I environmental assessment, which takes 50 days, before moving on to industrial approval, which takes an additional 60 days as mandated by legislation. Paul Keats, the director of the regional integration, compliance, and operations unit at the Environment Department, highlighted the variability in the timeline between environmental approval and industrial application submission. The province has assigned a team of 10 staff members dedicated to expediting industrial approvals for metal mining projects.

Keats emphasized the goal of assisting clients in understanding and meeting the requirements for approval swiftly. While he couldn’t provide an exact estimate of the time saved by the new process, he stressed the importance of efficiency in the approval process.

MacKinnon added that Mi’kmaw leaders were consulted on the changes to the industrial approval process and will continue to be involved in project-specific consultations moving forward.

Overall, these regulatory changes aim to facilitate responsible resource development while maintaining environmental safeguards in Nova Scotia. The government’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental protection underscores its dedication to sustainable development in the province.