Currently viewing the tag: "Mining"
Shell wants to increase oil production from the Canadian tar sands by expanding its Jackpine Mine. The company says it can do so responsibly. But opponents resist the high pace of tar sands development, demanding stronger safeguards for health and the environment in northern Alberta.
Canada is resisting efforts to curb international trade in asbestos, the building material that can cause cancer. The country, which prohibits its use, wants to continue to export the material to developing countries where it is still allowed. In the mining town of Asbestos, people are hoping for a revival of good times.
Rising world demand for food has put a spotlight on potash, a key ingredient of agricultural fertilizer. Market leader Potash Corp. remains in Canadian hands after a failed takeover bid. Although potash doesn’t have the universal visibility of oil, it is an essential source of energy. Join a tour of an underground potash mine.
The world is facing a shortage of rare earth metals, resources needed in small quantities to make hybrid cars, electronics and other products. China, the world’s main supplier, is keeping most of its production for itself. In California, Molycorp sees an opportunity to breathe new life into an old mine.
The Canadian oil sands are an enormous reserve of non-conventional oil. Because of the high oil price, the difficult extraction process has become economically viable. Energy companies, including Royal Dutch Shell, are investing billions of dollars. The regional economy is overheating – and opponents point to environmental damage.
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