Taseko was chosen as the winner of the 2013 Mining and Sustainability Award presented by the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC) and the government of British Columbia.
“Over the past decade, Taseko has demonstrated a commitment to responsible development and continuous improvement at all levels of its operation, including community and First Nations engagement, health and safety, environmental stewardship, and operational efficiencies,” said Karina Briño, president and CEO, MABC. “The company has re-built Gibraltar into a modern operation, which is now the largest employer in the Cariboo; an achievement worthy of this recognition.”
“We are honored to have been chosen for this award in recognition of our dedication to responsible mining,” said Russell Hallbauer, president and CEO of Taseko. “Re-establishing the Gibraltar mine as a leading edge copper mine, the second largest in Canada, is a tribute to the hard work and effort of the Taseko-Gibraltar team. It is gratifying to be acknowledged by both industry and government in such a significant way.
“To be able to share this award with Teck Resources, Canada’s top mining company recognized around the world for their leadership in sustainable mining practice, is not only a high privilege for us but a true testament to the quality of our team of dedicated professionals,” said Hallbauer.
The annual award recognizes the diverse companies, communities, First Nations, nongovernmental organizations, government agencies, and individuals committed to advancing and promoting sustainable development in the British Columbia mining sector. Nominees are assessed based on eight key criteria, including: health and safety, effective engagement, respect for indigenous peoples, environment, operation life cycle, resource use efficiency, continuous learning and adaptation and the economic, social and cultural benefits to the local community.
The company will be accepting the award at a community celebration in Williams Lake next week.
