Alaska is a unique place - and the state’s mining industry strives to keep it that way! The commitment to the environment is grounded in law and responsibly powered by the collective dedication and values of Alaskans from every sector—from wildlife biologists to environmental engineers, to long haul truckers. Advanced technologies and innovative methods align to ensure Alaska’s mining operations not only protect but actively restore the land.

Recognized Global Standards

Alaska’s stringent regulations ensure that mining and environmental stewardship coexist. Monitored and enforced by the Alaska departments of Natural Resources, Fish and Game, and Environmental Conservation, as well as multiple federal agencies, Alaska’s mining practices are setting global benchmarks in responsible resource development.

Sustainability in Action

Through innovations and sustainable practices, mining companies in Alaska are dedicated to minimizing their environmental footprint. They are constantly improving cutting-edge technologies that lessen impacts on land, water, and biodiversity. Initiatives include:

• Zero hazardous material spills
• Efficient resource use
• Significant investments in environmental monitoring and rehabilitation

These mining companies are also creating and evolving sustainable practices that might surprise you. For example:

Teck’s Red Dog Mine near Kotzebue is one of the world's largest zinc mines and the largest critical mineral mine in the United States. In 2024, Red Dog Mine became the first mining site in the United States to receive the stand-alone Zinc Mark in recognition of environmentally and socially responsible production practices. To be verified, operations are assessed and independently verified against 32 responsible production criteria including greenhouse gas emissions, community health and safety, respect for Indigenous rights and business integrity. More information about the Zinc Mark verification can be found here.

Teck’s commitment to responsible production is underpinned by a comprehensive sustainability strategy, which guides the company’s focus on operating sustainably, ensuring the health and safety of their people, and building strong relationships with communities. Learn more about Teck’s sustainability strategy.

Hecla’s Greens Creek Mine recycles a substantial portion of its waste, including hazardous materials, contributing to environmental sustainability.

The company also recognizes that energy conservation is not just good for the environment, it’s good business. At Greens Creek, 84% of the mine’s electricity is sourced from the grid, of which 100% is renewable hydropower. This has allowed Hecla Greens Creek to avoid using more than 70 million gallons of diesel fuel since 2009 due to the availability of surplus hydropower.

Hecla’s hydropower purchases also result in a lower electricity cost to Juneau residents and businesses. Affordable electricity is becoming more important as Juneau increases its electric vehicle use – the city now ranks second in the rate of EV ownership in the U.S. – and electrically powered infrastructure.

Regional Environmental Initiatives

Beyond site activities, every mining organization in Alaska, whether in an exploration phase or in full operation, engages in a wide range of regional initiatives that provide community support and encourage participation.

Coeur Alaska’s Kensington Mine emphasizes resource stewardship, aiming to go beyond waste management to resource preservation. Leading with strong Environmental, Social, and Governance practices, the company upgraded its powerhouse in 2019 as an effort to reduce the environmental footprint.

The new generators effectively reduced fuel consumption by 25% while providing increased power capacity. The upgrade also reduced particulate matter by 85%, meaning significantly fewer emissions.

As of 2023, Coeur Alaska marked its third year offsetting emissions through the Alaska Carbon Reduction Fund. ACRF uses offset funds to support Juneau’s lower-income families’ transitions to efficient, hydro-powered, air source heat pump home heating systems. Juneau is powered by clean, renewable, and low-cost hydropower – so transitioning households off oil heat and onto electric heat is a benefit from both an environmental and financial perspective. Learn more about Coeur Alaska’s environmental stewardship.

Alaska Mining Cares

Environmental stewardship is part of the Alaska mining industry’s DNA. It involves balancing conservation with responsible development to sustainably manage natural resources for future generations, while safeguarding the state's unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.

‍

‍

Banner photo courtesy of Coeur Alaska, Inc.

‍

‍