Mining for a Sustainable Energy Transition
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Remediation and Reclamation at LDI
At Northern Graphite we aspire to achieve a carbon-neutral production stream by 2039. We are committed to meeting the increasing demand for graphite, building a sustainable future with mining and manufacturing processes that enable a cleaner, greener world.
A sustainable energy transition will only be possible if the materials used to equip it are produced sustainably. We are committed to holding ourselves to the highest environmental, social and governance standards. Sustainable mining practises, including the use of low-carbon energy sources, water and dust management, and protecting the environment, are fundamental to having a carbon-neutral product stream. Since its inception in 1989, LDI has prioritized environmental responsibility, operating within a fully permitted framework that includes the mine, mill, and tailings facilities. Our commitment to remediation and reclamation is guided by the principle that the best remediation efforts return borrowed land to the environment in a sustainable manner. Mined out areas, waste rock piles and tailings facilities are proactively reclaimed, ensuring a balanced approach to environmental stewardship.
A Comprehensive Approach: Past, Present, and Future
Present Efforts:
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Ongoing Tailings Management
One of the Company’s primary ongoing remediation projects is our current tailings pond. It was developed in 2014 by repurposing a former open pit and at closure will be transformed into a lake linked to the local drainage system. This transformation exemplifies our reclamation philosophy of utilizing existing mine features to minimize environmental disruption. By repurposing previously excavated areas, we reduce our overall footprint and integrate waste management into a long-term sustainability strategy.
Past Reclamation Successes
We have already successfully reclaimed a former tailings pond. After the ore is ground to the consistency of sand, and the graphite separated out, the waste material is known as “tailings”. The tailings pond has been drained and capped and is now stable, flat ground. This is one of our most significant reclamation projects. Between 1989 and 2014, this site served as the primary repository for tailings and spans approximately 50 hectares. Over the years, a series of dams were constructed to manage and contain these materials efficiently, with tailings depths ranging from 10–15 meters at the northern end to as deep as 30–40 meters at the southern boundary.
The reclamation process for this site involved extensive soil and vegetation rehabilitation. Various seed types and vegetation species were introduced and mixed with the existing soil, allowing natural ecological processes to take over. After an initial five-year period of monitoring with no modifications, a series of agronomic follow-ups were conducted to assess the effectiveness of the reclamation.
Remediated Tailings – Click arrows on image edge to see more
To achieve official approval from the Ministry of the Environment, independent agronomic assessments are required to confirm successful reclamation.These assessments evaluate key criteria, including:
- Vegetation Establishment – Ensuring plant life has taken hold and is covering the area.
- Autonomous Growth – Verifying that vegetation is self-sustaining, requiring no additional watering, and demonstrating multi-generational plant growth.
- Soil Characterization – Confirming through independent analysis that the soil is free from harmful substances and meets environmental safety standards.
The first review of this site was completed in 2019, and the fifth and final assessment is scheduled for 2025. Upon validation, we will seek formal reclamation certification from the Ministry of the Environment.
Additionally, we have rehabilitated another old pit through backfill, as opposed to leaving an open excavation. Revegetation is ongoing.
Future Initiatives: Advancing Circular Economy Practices
Looking ahead, our next major project involves the reclamation of the original waste pile from our first pit – currently a large accumulation of waste rock located at the entrance to the mine site.
In addition to our reclamation initiatives, LDI is actively engaged in broader environmental sustainability efforts, including:
- Water Conservation: Implementing strategies to reduce overall water consumption and enhance water recycling within our operations.
- Residual Waste Management: Optimizing waste management practices to minimize environmental impact.
- Clean Energy Adoption: Exploring cleaner, more efficient energy sources to power our operations and reduce our carbon footprint.
Our ongoing remediation and reclamation efforts reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship. As we continue to advance our sustainability objectives, we remain dedicated to responsible mining practices that prioritize ecological integrity, regulatory compliance, and long-term land rehabilitation.
