Innovation at Diavik

The design, construction and operation of Diavik is a story of success on a grand scale, in part because it is in one of the most challenging environments in the world: the sub-arctic tundra, one of the world’s pristine environments with one of the most delicate ecosystems. We are committed to protecting the biodiversity of this unique landscape.

And, through innovation, world class engineering technologies and partnering with Indigenous people, we are able to mine some of the world’s most ethical diamonds with a minimal impact on the local land, water, and wildlife.

All mines have a finite life cycle and Diavik has planned for its closure from the outset. The buildings on site have been designed to be removed. And when mining ends, the embankments will be reclaimed and lake water will flow back into the open pit.

Growth

Diavik’s fourth diamond pipe is known as A21. The ore body has been pivotal to extending the mine’s life and maximising the available mineral resource. While re-examining the feasibility of underground mining at A21, the Diavik team developed a plan that resulted in the approval of the first phase of a 2-phase expansion project. This created an extension of the mine’s life until the first quarter of 2026, ensuring sustained economic benefits to the region and our stakeholders.

Offsetting emissions

Our focus on minimising our environmental impact and reducing the use of diesel was inherent in our construction of an award-winning wind farm that generates enough renewable energy to power Diavik’s underground mine. Since it was installed in 2012, it has generated 191 million kWh, saved 118,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions and saved the equivalent of 43.4 million litres of diesel fuel.

We are also constructing the largest solar panel project in Canada’s north. The plant will generate 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of carbon-free electricity each year from over 6,600 solar panels.

The project will reduce diesel consumption at the site by around one million litres per year and will reduce emissions by 2,900 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent. That’s comparable to eliminating the emissions from 630 cars.

We are working with the Government of the Northwest Territories and community partners to determine how the solar farm can best benefit the region following closure.

Planning for closure

All mines have a finite life cycle and Diavik has planned for its closure from the outset. The buildings on site have been designed to be removed without a trace. And when mining ends, the embankments will be reclaimed and lake water will flow back into the open pit.