GNWT promotes NWT critical minerals, natural gas and ESG at Arctic Energy & Resource Symposium
Press Release
As the territory positions itself to meet the energy and mineral needs of the future, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Caroline Wawzonek, spoke at the 21st annual Arctic Energy & Resource Symposium in Calgary, highlighting the GNWT’s work towards attracting environmental, social and governance (ESG) conscious investors and project developers.
Investor demand is rising, following the COVID-19 pandemic, for projects with strong ESG performance which, alongside financial factors, are strongly influencing investment decision-makers.
Minister Wawzonek highlighted to delegates attending the symposium how the NWT’s collaborative approach to diamond mining has positioned the territory on the leading edge of these trending practices and requirements in Canada and worldwide.
Minister Wawzonek showcased three projects: the Tłı̨chǫ Highway, the Nechalacho rare earths mine and the Inuvialuit Energy Security Project as tangible examples of successful Indigenous participation and leadership; and investment and partnership opportunities that exist in the NWT today.
Quote(s)
In the North, perhaps more than anywhere, a collaborative model for resource development has emerged. We have, and continue to build relationships in our territory that result in the support and acceptance of major infrastructure and resource projects. Beyond our incredible resources, it’s what sets us apart from global competitors, and what makes the NWT a unique place to invest and do business.
– Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Quick facts
- The Tłı̨chǫ Highway is the first major construction project in the NWT in which an Indigenous government has taken an equity role.
- The Nechalacho rare earths mine represents the first time an Indigenous group has been contracted to extract minerals on its traditional land.
- The Inuvialuit Energy Security Project, owned and operated by the Inuvialuit, will tap a natural gas well in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region to displace diesel in powering and heating homes and businesses in Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk.
Related links
For media requests, please contact:
Drew Williams
Assistant Director, Strategic Communications
Department of Industry Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Drew_williams@gov.nt.ca
Phone: (867) 767-9202 ext. 63037
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