Northgate is committed to follow sustainable mining practices at all its operations and development properties.  Our primary objective is to minimize the company’s environmental footprint and to provide protection for the environment today and for the benefit of future generations through best management practices during all phases of the mining life cycle.  Northgate considers responsible environmental management to be central to our success and to be a commitment to our employees, our shareholders, and the communities in which we operate.

Northgate’s commitment to environmental protection is founded in the diligent application of technically proven and economically feasible management controls for all phases of the mining life cycle from exploration through to reclamation and closure of each project.

In our efforts to achieve and to maintain high standards of environmental excellence, Northgate adopts the following principles throughout all stages of exploration, development, mining and closure:

• carry out sound operational and management practices to ensure our facilities are in compliance with all applicable legislation providing for the protection of the environment, employees and the public;
• pursue available technology to reduce environmental effects and implement improvements through best management practices;
• provide updates to the Board of Directors and report annually to regulators, stakeholders and the public on the Company’s performance in carrying out its environmental responsibilities during the year;
• promote environmental awareness with our directors, facility managers, suppliers and employees;
• work cooperatively with government agencies, local communities, First Nations and concerned parties to achieve the mutual benefit of environmental protection and sustainable development.

A number of examples highlight Northgate’s commitment to environmental protection:

• long-term fisheries enhancements program at Kemess, whereby fish ladders have been constructed to increase the available fish habitat and fish populations in the mine site and surrounding areas.
• progressive reclamation activities at Kemess prior to closure, with more than 10,000 tree seedlings planted at the site since 2004 and upon closure of the mine, the area will be suitable for wildlife habitat.

As a result of our efforts in environmental protection, Northgate has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Metal Mining Reclamation Citation from the BC Technical and Research Committee.