Glencore Launches Anuri Mine to Secure Future of Raglan Nickel-Copper Project
Glencore has officially opened the Anuri mine, marking a significant milestone in the extension of the Raglan nickel-copper project's operational life by at least two decades. This development underscores Glencore's commitment to fostering sustainable relationships with the local communities surrounding its ventures.
Located in northern Quebec, the Raglan mine has been operational since 1997, distinguishing itself as the first mining project in the area to establish an impact and benefits agreement with local Indigenous bands. The name Anuri, translating to "wind" in Inuktitut, reflects the mine's integration with the local culture and environment, having been selected by Raglan employees as part of the Sivumut or "moving forward" initiative in Nunavik.
Jan-Francois Verret, Glencore's director of projects, geology, and exploration, highlighted the numerous challenges overcome to bring the Sivumut project to fruition, including the pandemic, Arctic climate, and logistical hurdles. He attributed the project's success to exceptional teamwork and partnership, emphasizing safety and efficiency in execution.
The Sivumut project, comprising Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the Raglan mine, aims to leverage existing infrastructure while minimizing the environmental footprint of mining operations. This initiative aligns with Quebec's provincial environmental act and the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, reflecting Glencore's dedication to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
With the Raglan project boasting reserves of 31.9 million tonnes with notable nickel, copper, and cobalt grades, the addition of the Anuri mine is poised to significantly bolster Glencore's production capacity and secure the project's future. This strategic expansion not only ensures a steady supply of critical minerals but also reinforces Glencore's position as a key player in the global mining industry.
