For mining in the north, the annual gross domestic product, which was $4.4 billion in 2011, is expected to reach $8.5 billion in 2020 (both figures in constant 2002 dollars).

“Mining is the future economic driver of Canada’s North. To fully reap the benefits of this potential, we must find the right balance between risk and opportunity,” said Anja Jeffrey, director of the CBC Centre for the North, in a written statement.

To achieve this outcome, industry, governments and communities must address matters of infrastructure, regulatory uncertainty, skills shortages and Aboriginal rights.

“Many northern and Aboriginal regions continue to worry about the effects that mining projects may have on their lands and on the environment. Such issues can only be resolved through dialogue,” Jeffrey said.

While the business environment has been stable, with improvements in community engagement and environmental protection, the CBC states impediments to sustainable growth remain.

Six main issues are identified:

Improvements to regulatory processes Inadequate or non-existent infrastructure Shortage of skilled labour Engagement of local and Aboriginal communities Environmental stewardship Clarity around mine closure

The report also looks at potential solutions to these issues, such as:

Governments concluding more transparent impact and benefit agreements Public-private partnerships relieving costs of infrastructure Mining education and training, especially for Northern Aboriginal peoples Mining companies keeping up communication that begins at project outset and continues through the mine life Governments and industry maintaining environmental sustainability through legislated and voluntary programs Industry developing plans for mine closure, decommissioning and reclamation – in collaboration with the local communities

Read the full report, The Future of Mining in Canada’s North here>>