The Tsay Keh Dene Nation (TKDN) has partnered with Tersa Earth Innovations Inc. to develop more sustainable mining practices in British Columbia.
The partnership includes an investment by the Tsay Keh Dene in Tersa Earth, a Canadian cleantech company focused on environmental remediation in the mining sector.
Supporting Environmental and Economic Goals
The Tsay Keh Dene Nation’s traditional territory in Northern British Columbia has been impacted by mining activity for decades. Chief Johnny Pierre said the agreement aligns with the Nation’s priorities. “This partnership is about supporting the development of a technology that protects the environment while ensuring economic opportunities for our people,” he said. “By investing in Tersa Earth’s platform, we are fulfilling our role as stewards of the lands and resources and affirming our core values of sustainability and responsible resource development.”
A Different Approach to Mining Waste
Tersa Earth has developed a microbial technology designed to accelerate the breakdown of contaminants in mining sites. The approach is intended to be more effective than traditional methods, while also enabling the recovery of valuable metals from waste materials.
Barinder Rasode, CEO and co-founder of Tersa Earth, said the partnership represents a shift toward a more collaborative approach to mining sustainability. “We are thrilled to welcome the Tsay Keh Dene Nation as partners in our mission to transform mining,” she said. “Their investment and leadership signal a new era where Indigenous communities and technology innovators collaborate to drive positive environmental outcomes.”
The company was recognized in 2024 as one of Canada’s Top 50 Most Investible Cleantech Ventures, reflecting investor confidence in its potential impact on the mining sector.
Mining and the Demand for Critical Materials
The demand for metals such as nickel, copper, and lithium is increasing due to the growth of electric vehicles and AI data centers. This puts pressure on the mining industry to produce these materials more efficiently and with fewer environmental impacts. The collaboration between TKDN and Tersa Earth focuses on addressing these challenges by using technology to reduce mining waste and enhance remediation efforts.
Indigenous Investment in Sustainable Resource Development
Indigenous governments are playing a growing role in resource development, advocating for projects that align with both economic and environmental goals. By investing in Tersa Earth, the Tsay Keh Dene Nation is aiming to influence how mining operations are managed, ensuring that sustainability is prioritized alongside economic benefits.
A Potential Shift in Mining Practices
Traditional mining operations have struggled with long-term environmental impacts, particularly related to waste management and water contamination. Tersa Earth’s approach aims to offer an alternative by improving water treatment, reducing waste, and recovering metals that would otherwise be lost.
The broader mining industry is under increasing pressure to improve its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. Technologies like those developed by Tersa Earth could provide a pathway to meeting stricter environmental standards while maintaining productivity.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between the Tsay Keh Dene Nation and Tersa Earth Innovations reflects a growing trend toward Indigenous participation in sustainable resource development. If successful, it could offer a model for other communities and mining companies looking to balance economic and environmental priorities.
With rising demand for critical metals, finding ways to make mining more sustainable will remain a pressing issue. The success of this partnership will depend on how well the technology can be integrated into existing mining operations and whether it can deliver measurable improvements in environmental outcomes.
