Recultivation - a new environment for the region?
The geologically rich Sudbury Basin was formed around 1.8 million years ago by the impact of an asteroid approximately 10 kilometres in size and is located in the Canadian province of Ontario. It extends over a width of approx. 60 kilometres and a length of approx. 30 kilometres. The region is known for its exceptional deposits of nickel, copper, cobalt, gold, silver, platinum and palladium. Mining has characterised the region for generations and is an important economic factor. Until today, companies are still carrying out explorations - at depths of up to 3 kilometres, for example - to discover new mineral deposits.
The intensive mining activity around Sudbury initially led to a severe impact on the environment, which became visible in the desertification of entire areas of land. In recent decades, however, a remarkable change has taken place. Thanks to extensive renaturalisation measures, the landscape with its diverse flora and fauna is now regarded as a prime example of environmental restoration.
Our case study examines the opportunities and prospects offered by mining, as well as the significance and impact of recultivation measures. We analyse what this ‘new environment’ means for the region and what opportunities and limitations it also holds for mining in general. In dialogues with stakeholders, we explore the ideas and considerations behind the different viewpoints on mining and environmental protection in the region.
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