According to statistics, the global consumption of copper currently stands for 24.4 million metric tons. This plentiful metal is enriched with numerous useful properties that include corrosion resistance, electrical and heat conductivity, malleability, ductility, and many more. The metal occurs naturally, but far more quantities are obtained from minerals like chalcopyrite and bornite. The processes involved to obtain minerals from these ores include smelting, leaching, and electrolysis. Chile, Peru, and China are major copper-producing countries.
Canada In Copper Production
Canada is also one of the important producers of copper, with the highest concentration obtained from Ontario and British Columbia. In 2019, the Canadian copper mines produced 543,608 tons of copper. Half of the copper concentrate was obtained from British Columbia. Copper production has significantly contributed to boosting economic growth and development. The country’s total exports of copper were valued at $7.0 billion in 2019. Numerous companies like Solaris Resources are working to improve and develop exploration and mining services. Solaris Resources Inc has recently made a significant new discovery within its Warintza project in southeastern Ecuador. This is a breakthrough in their expansive drilling program and is likely to help grow the company’s presence in the region. Canada is maintaining a stronghold on the copper recycling industry. Various copper mines are significantly contributing with its production to meet the global demands of this versatile element.
Hudbay Minerals Inc.
Founded – 1996
Headquarter – Toronto, Canada
It’s a diversified mining company that produces copper concentrate and zinc metal. The company is focused on the discovery, production, and marketing of precious metals. Hudbay Minerals owns the Rosemont project, which is a copper development project in Pima County, Arizona, USA. In the year 2019, this underground mine produced 137,179 tons and 119,106 tons of zinc, respectively. The copper concentrate produced contains some quantities of copper, gold, and silver.
Imperial Metals Corp.
Founded – 1959
Headquarter – Vancouver, Canada
It’s a mine development and operating company that produces gold and molybdenum along with copper. The company is involved in the acquisition, exploration, development, mining, and production of essential base and precious metals in North America. Its majority of operations are held in British Columbia. In 2019, the company formed a joint venture with Newcrest Mining Ltd. for the operation of Red Chris Mine. Red Chris Mine produced 88.3 million pounds of copper and 73,787 ounces of gold in 2020.
Taseko Mines Ltd.
Founded – 1999
Headquarter – Vancouver, Canada
It’s a mid-tier copper producer company, which is located in British Columbia. The company is involved in the production and sale of metal within Canada and the USA. The company owns Florence Copper, Yellowhead copper, New Prosperity copper-gold, Aley niobium, and Harmony gold projects. It operates the second largest open-pit mine in Canada, Gibraltar Mine, which has the production of 140 million pounds and 2.6 million pounds of copper and molybdenum production, respectively.
Conclusion
The copper produced in Canada is extensively utilized for the manufacturing of electrical, construction, and technical purposes. Most of the copper is obtained from British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland, and Labrador in Canada. The metal is widespread in the country to be mined profitably.
