The Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) body has appointed Turner & Townsend to provide services in support of the Faro Mine Remediation Project in Yukon, Canada.

The contract forms part of the broader project, which aims to address environmental and safety issues following the mine’s closure in 1998.

The Canadian government is focusing efforts on stabilising and restoring the former lead-zinc open-pit mine.

The Faro Mine previously held a status as the largest lead-zinc open-pit mine in the world prior to its closure.

In February 2022, Parsons was contracted for main construction management and care and maintenance services at the site. The company’s contract is expected to span more than 20 years and surpass $2bn.

As part of the contract from PSPC, the energy and natural resources team from Turner & Townsend will offer independent third-party cost and analysis services for the project.

Specifically, the team will focus on supporting financial management and schedule control during the construction of the Faro Mine water treatment plant.

The new water treatment plant aims to address requirements for human health, environmental protection, and safety. The project also includes plans to provide local employment opportunities.

The facility represents a key element in ongoing remediation strategies at the site.

Turner & Townsend North American mining lead director David Isherwood said: “We look forward to supporting the Faro Mine Remediation Project with this large mine remediation, bringing our global experience to bear to help ensure this project is a success.

“Mining of materials like zinc is an essential part of the global economy, but it’s also crucial that this is done in a sustainable way, and the long-term remediation of sites is at the heart of this.

“Faro Mine reflects Turner & Townsend’s ongoing commitment to delivering on the world’s most impactful projects, creating a lasting positive impact on the environment and local communities.” 

The Faro Mine site covers 25km² and is situated near its town namesake.

Mining operations at the site prior to its closure produced 70 million tonnes of tailings and 320 million tonnes of waste rock, resulting in ongoing metal and acid leaching into local land and water.

The site, comprising two primary locations - Faro and Vangorda - collectively known as the Faro Mine Complex, remains under care and maintenance.

These measures will persist until all necessary remediation plans and regulatory approvals are finalised to move ahead with active clean-up.