Diavik

Planning for closure

All mines have a finite life cycle cycle, and Diavik planned for closure from the outset. Closure activities were integrated into mine planning and operations from the very beginning, making us a leader for closure in Canadian mining. 

With mining now complete, Diavik is progressing through decommissioning and reclamation. Buildings and infrastructure are being decommissioned, salvaged where practical, or demolished safely. Over time, embankments will be breached and lake water will be returned to the mined areas, reconnecting them with Lac de Gras once it is confirmed safe to do so.

Innovation at Diavik

The design, construction and operation of Diavik is a story of success on a grand scale, in part because it is in one of the most challenging environments in the world: the sub-Arctic tundra, a pristine landscape with a delicate ecosystem. We remain committed to protecting the biodiversity of this unique landscape. 

And, through innovation, world class engineering technologies and in collaboration with our Indigenous partners, we were able to mine some of the world’s most ethical diamonds with a minimal impact on the local land, water, wildlife, and people. These foundations continue to guide a responsible and carefully planned closure, with a focus on leaving the site safe and stable for the long term.

Reducing emissions

Our focus on minimising our environmental impact and reducing the use of diesel was inherent in our construction of an award-winning wind farm that generates enough renewable energy to power Diavik’s underground mine. Over its operating life, the wind farm generated approximately 200 million kilowatt‑hours of renewable electricity, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and displaced millions of litres of diesel fuel.

Diavik also constructed the largest off‑grid solar power project in Canada’s North. The solar plant generates approximately 4.2 million kilowatt‑hours of carbon‑free electricity each year and will continue to play an important role in reducing emissions during closure activities.

We are working with the Government of the Northwest Territories and community partners to determine how the solar farm can best benefit the region following closure.