Grant: Alliance Grants

Copper is one of the most important metals needed to enable the transition to a low-carbon energy economy, including high demand in electric cars, solar panels, wind turbines and associated electrical infrastructure. Over the next 30 years, copper demand is expected to more than double. In order to supply the required copper, the world will need to identify significant new copper deposits. Porphyry copper deposits are one of the worlds most important types of copper deposits. In British Columbia, several significant porphyry copper deposits are actively mined, and mineral exploration companies are actively searching for more porphyry copper deposits to help meet the global copper demand. However, porphyry copper deposits are becoming increasingly difficult to find, as the deposits at or near-surface have most likely been discovered. This research project aims to improve the efficiency and pace of porphyry copper discovery in British Columbia by providing mineral exploration companies with new tools and knowledge to identify the most fertile deposits, and "vector" towards those deposits. In addition, the project will train a number of students and postdoctoral research fellows researchers in order to provide highly qualified future employees for the mineral exploration industry.