Indigenous Traditional Knowledge is transforming how we mine
At Dominion Diamond’s Ekati mine in the Northwest Territories, located just 200 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, the Traditional Knowledge Elders Group (TKEG) advises on how to continuously improve the integration of Traditional Knowledge into the mine’s operations.
The TKEG is made up of Elders, Indigenous land users and Traditional Knowledge holders from across the North. The group was initially established following input from the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board, to provide Traditional Knowledge input into the design, operations and eventual closure of the Ekati mine. In turn, the members of the TKEG are helping Dominion Diamond protect the environment and mitigate impacts on caribou and other wildlife.
The Elders are invited on excursions to the mine site and are involved in planning, construction and reclamation projects. By engaging with the TKEG and Indigenous communities, Dominion Diamond is learning from their Traditional Knowledge of the land and wildlife and is transforming how it operates.
By integrating Traditional Knowledge into our business, Canada’s mining industry is working alongside the surrounding communities to preserve the environment for future generations.