De Beers' New Mine Faces Polar Bear Concerns
October 18, 22
(IDEX Online) - De Beers' plans for a diamond mine on Canada's Baffin Island has raised concerns about neighboring Inuit communities, as well as polar bear and caribou populations.
The UK-based miner bought the Chidliak Project in September 2018 as part of its purchase of Peregrine Diamonds for C$107m.
Wildlife groups are now warning that caribou populations are already in decline and the mine could affect their calving grounds.
The Government of Canada's Nunavut territory has raised concerns about the welfare of caribou (reindeer) and the summer polar bear population.
And the federal department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada says Inuit employment and businesses should be prioritized if the project goes ahead, according to Nunatsiaq News.
Exploration has been taking place at the site since 2008 and 74 kimberlites have so far been discovered.
De Beers submitted its proposal for an airstrip, quarry and access road to the Nunavut Impact Review Board last month and hopes to become operational as soon as 2026. It says it's in the process of reviewing comments on its application.
Pic shows a polar bear on Baffin Island.