Alberta introduces coal mining modernization initiative

Alberta has announced new rules, through the Alberta Coal Industry Modernization Initiative (CIMI), that will prohibit mountaintop removal mining and ban new open-pit mines in the foothills, while increasing coal royalties for taxpayers.

The province is considering a potential mine at Grassy Mountain near Crowsnest Pass. The site holds a pervious coal excavation and is hotly contested by environmentalists.

An overwhelming majority of locals want the project to advance for economic reasons.

"The CIMI will guide responsible coal mining practices with a goal of ensuring that Alberta’s waters are protected from mining contaminants such as selenium," said the province in a press release.

Alberta Energy and Minerals Minister Brian Jean told the Western Standard Alberta won't allow the type of environmental damage created by coal mines in Elk Valley B.C., not far from Grassy Mountain.

He said Grassy Mountain would use water from a local brownfield pond and contain problematic — selenium leeching — tailings.

"Are we going to allow multiple mines within one river valley?" said Jean. "No, we're not."

"Are we going to make sure that if anything is allowed in such a geography, that they have a plan to contain the selenium first? Absolutely. We're not going to do what B.C. did. We're not going to do what the NDP allowed there, and we're going to make sure that we are an example to the world."

Alberta NDP leader Naheed Nenshi called-out the UCP for its consideration of the proposed mine.

"There is not one project anywhere in the world that I'm aware of that actually is able to prevent selenium from leaking into the water," he said.

"In fact, most recently, (energy) Minister Jean said selenium is a vitamin. So, which is it? There is no technology yet. If the technology is developed, there are still a number of environmental concerns."