By Jamie Hyland
Toronto, ON — March 4, 2024 — The PDAC Convention, renowned globally as the premier event for mineral exploration and mining, embarked on its 2024 iteration with a surge of enthusiasm, innovation, and collaboration among attendees. Hosted at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from March 3-6, this year’s convention promised an expansive array of sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities tailored to professionals, companies, and students within the minerals and mining sector.
The opening day was marked by insightful opening remarks from Raymond Goldie, the President of PDAC, who set the tone for the convention with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and the critical role of mining in the global economy. First Nations elder Ed Sackaney, Knowledge & Wisdom Keeper at George Brown College, blessed PDAC in a smudging ceremony and provided a poignant reminder of the importance of integrating traditional knowledge and respect for the land in mining practices.
Government of Canada’s Marc G. Serré, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and to the Minister of Official Languages, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources reinforced the commitment to the mining sector. He underscored the dual potential for driving economic growth and upholding environmental stewardship. This approach reflects a balanced vision for the future, aligning economic ambitions with ecological responsibilities, demonstrating Canada’s proactive stance in supporting a sustainable and prosperous mining industry.
A significant highlight of PDAC is the celebration of the 20-year anniversary of the Indigenous Program at the PDAC Convention. This program has been a cornerstone in fostering meaningful dialogue and partnerships between Indigenous communities, companies, and stakeholders. The discussions centered around cooperative, respectful, and mutually beneficial relationships that promote sustainable development and recognize the vital contributions of Indigenous peoples to the mining industry.
Sustainability Efforts: Towards a Greener Future
PDAC 2024 showcased a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship, introducing initiatives aimed at waste reduction and energy conservation. The partnership with TerraCycle’s Zero Waste Box program was a testament to PDAC’s efforts to minimize the environmental impact of the convention, ensuring materials such as foam signage, badge holders, and lanyards are recycled effectively. The Metro Toronto Convention Centre’s ongoing sustainability measures further underscored the shared vision for a more sustainable mining industry.
Keynote Program: Inspiring Innovation and Exploration
The Keynote Program captivated attendees with presentation by Michael Stanley, Mining Lead at The World Bank, who delivered a keynote on the mining industry outlook. He highlighted the potential for the Global South to enhance its role in mineral supply chains and capture more market share. Despite investor caution due to technological shifts and policy uncertainties, opportunities exist for creating jobs, facilitating infrastructure investment, diversifying economies, and enhancing resilience. The World Bank’s efforts to strengthen governance and facilitate sustainable investment were emphasized as key to promoting economic diversification and increasing the Global South’s contribution to mineral supply chains
The PDAC New Members Networking Reception offered a unique platform for new members to connect with PDAC Directors and peers, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The day was also filled with various educational sessions, including the highly anticipated NI 43-101 course, which sold out quickly, demonstrating the eagerness of participants to learn about the latest standards in mineral project disclosure.
A cornerstone of the PDAC Convention, the Core Shack, provided an unparalleled opportunity for companies to present their core samples, showcasing the latest discoveries and technological advancements in exploration. Attendees and investors could delve into detailed geological information, enhancing their understanding of the potential and challenges of various mineral projects.
From the Estonia breakfast seminar to sessions on critical minerals and Indigenous economic reconciliation, the day offered a rich tapestry of learning and exchange. The PDAC-SEG Student Minerals Colloquium and the various technical programs highlighted the dynamic nature of the mining sector, touching on critical issues such as sustainability innovation, de-risking mineral supply chains, and the future of commodities in volatile markets.
Day 1 of the PDAC Convention 2024 set a high standard for the days to follow, encapsulating the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and sustainability that defines the global mining community. As attendees looked forward to more insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and groundbreaking presentations, the convention continued to serve as a beacon for the future of mining and exploration, fostering a world where the sector operates in harmony with the environment and communities it impacts.
