For each ton of iron that is extracted from mining in Canada, over three tons of waste are generated. What happens with this waste? And what does it do to the environment? 

In 2015, there was a tailings breach in the Yellow Giant Mine, near the town of Prince Rupert. As a result, wastewater flowed into a nearby creek for six weeks. This greatly polluted the water, and samples showed that the water heavily exceeded health guidelines for lead, arsenic and mercury, among other contaminants. 

Now, the BC government is granting exploration rights to small mining companies, to stake the land. The Indigenous nations should be part of these conversations, as the 2015 breach clearly shows what can happen to the environment. 

We bring forth this challenge to the BC provincial government, specifically the ministry of energy, mining and low carbon innovation, s well as to the municipal governments within the North Coast regional division to step-up and protect the Tsimshian nations. They are a vital part of our province and are entitled to rights such as safe habitation and safe needs such as water, unfortunately as a result. 

We call for the action of protecting indigenous lands by revoking mining licences and permits, and put the lands under governmental protection. 

Help us make a change that will be vital for the environment. With this petition, we are hoping to raise awareness for this topic, and make a change.