ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P. to fund major mining research collaboration at McGill University
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ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P. announced today a long-term funding programme to support mining and materials engineering R&D in the Faculty of Engineering at McGill University. The strategic partnership pledges to provide $360,000 over four years to create the ArcelorMittal Mining and Mineral Processing Fund, which will finance research projects and program development in the University’s Mining Department. This joint pledge by ArcelorMittal Mining Canada and ArcelorMittal Mining R&D marks the first major financial contribution by the fund to an educational institution in Canada.
A strong research focus on mining and mineral processing is critical as the global demand for high-grade raw materials increases, compelling the mining industry to minimise waste, improve industry energy efficiency and increase overall value of products. Research projects currently underway in the Department include: Stochastic Mine Planning, Geo-environmental, Mine Ventilation, and Industrial Transport Processes, among others.
Mining remains an important part of the Canadian economy, accounting for 3.3% of GDP in 2015 and employing 373,000 workers. Canada is the world’s number one destination for mining investment[1]and the Mining Department of McGill University has been ranked the 3rdbest educational facility of its kind in the world[2].
“We operate the largest surface mine in Canada and hold the position of Canada’s leading supplier of iron ore products for the global steel market. We strongly believe that investing in Canadian R&D will reinforce the leading position of Canada in the world mining industry,” said Pierre Lapointe, President and Chief Executive Officer, ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P. “We are extremely proud to announce this first-of-a-kind partnership with a leading Canadian university. The major investment announced today is further proof that we are committed to the sustainable management of the environment and of finite resources in our country and around the world and demonstrates our continued stewardship of driving sustainable development of the mining industry.”
“ArcelorMittal is proud to contribute to the industry collaboration with academic research centres and help develop innovative solutions for the future of the mining industry,” said Nicolas Dalmau, Head of Public Relations and Government Affairs at ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P.
“This investment from one of the world’s leading mining companies is a strong vote of confidence in our program,” said Professor Hani Mitri, Director of the Mining Department, at McGill University’s Faculty of Engineering. “The department is already recognized as one of the best in the world and this support will ensure that this reputation endures.”
“Mining has a major role to play in helping our society shift to a more sustainable economy,” said Professor Jim A. Nicell, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at McGill University. “Partnering with major corporations such as ArcelorMittal is a cornerstone of our strategy to prepare our students to become leaders in establishing opportunities for innovation and driving these changes to manage our future.”
The Mining Department of the Faculty of Engineering was the first mining school launched in Canada in 1871. Currently approximately 150 undergraduate students are enrolled in the Mining Department. ArcelorMittal Mining Canada has been active for over 60 years, during which time the company has produced in excess of 600 million metric tons of iron ore concentrate and 250 million metric tons of pellets.
About McGill University
Founded in Montreal, Quebec, in 1821, McGill is a leading Canadian post-secondary institution. It has two campuses, 10 faculties, 12 professional schools, 300 programs of study and almost 41,000 students, including more than 9,700 graduate students. McGill attracts students from over 150 countries around the world, its 12,000 international students making up 30% per cent of the student body. Over half of McGill students claim a first language other than English, including approximately 20% of our students who say French is their mother tongue. Find out more at www.mcgill.ca
About ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P.
ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P. produces more than 26Mt of iron oxide concentrate and 10Mt of pellets annually for the global steel market. The company is part of the mining sector of ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel company and one of the top 5 producers of iron ore worldwide. Find out more at www.transformerlavenir.com
Image from left: Professor Jim Nicell, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Mr. Nicolas Dalmau, Head of Public Relations and Government Affairs, ArcelorMittal Mining Canada G.P., Professor Hani Mitri, Director of Mining Engineering, Faculty of Engineering (photo: Gopesa Paquette)
[1]Fraser Institute study: http://www.mining.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/fraser-institute-survey...