The Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia (AME BC) is thankful to the federal government for selecting the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University to lead the establishment of the new Canadian International Institute for Extractive Industries and Development in Vancouver, British Columbia.

AME BC is a strategic partner in the successful UBC and SFU led coalition to establish and operate a new institute for extractive industries and development that will be funded by a $25-million grant from the Canadian International Development Agency. The creation of the institute was announced today by the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation.

“This announcement is a strong recognition of both UBC and SFU as world class, highly respected leaders in key areas that influence practices and innovation in the mineral exploration and development sector globally,” said Michael McPhie, Chair of AME BC. “We are very proud to have a deep and enduring partnership with both schools. As a strategic partner with SFU and UBC providing funding and in-kind resources, AME BC looks forward to working with them as they establish this new institute which will develop and promote best practices in environmentally and socially responsible natural resource development globally.”

Building on the respective strengths at UBC and SFU and in partnership with Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, the new institute will offer developing countries knowledge of best practices in extractive technology, public policy and regulations, and health and education outreach in order to empower industry, governments and non-governmental organizations to reduce poverty while protecting the environment.

“Having this new institute based in Vancouver reflects the fact that British Columbia is the global centre of excellence in mineral exploration and development,” said Gavin C. Dirom, President & CEO, AME BC. “Along with being the headquarters of many major international mining companies, there are 1,000 junior exploration and intermediate mining companies that are exploring, discovering and developing mineral resources around the globe. On top of that, there are approximately 2,400 international service consultants and supplier companies supporting the sector in technical, legal and financial affairs.”

Dirom added, “As leading corporate citizens, this business cluster of BC-based mineral exploration and development companies also contributes significantly to many charities, such as BC Children’s Hospital through the Mining for Miracles fundraising initiative, and to universities, schools and arts & cultural events throughout the province. Their support and contributions play an important role in so many communities in BC, not to mention around the world.”

“With global expertise in sustainability, environmental stewardship and corporate social responsibility, the new UBC-SFU led institute will build upon the strengths of BC’s global centre of excellence in mineral exploration and development and will create an enduring legacy for the industry and Canada as a whole,” concluded Dirom.