Q: Are there other…

Q: Are there other considerations or factors that Ontario should take into account when developing a critical minerals list for Ontario?

A: Develop a Critical Minerals/Elements Matrix:

Assessment criteria:

1. Is the element/mineral at the upstream of a value chain that will support Ontario’s economy and assist in building Ontario’s new low-carbon economy.

2. Supply
a) Is Canadian / North American demand growth likely to exceed supply. (Now, Future)
b) Is global supply at risk or susceptible to disruptions (political, economic, geographic, geological or environmental factors) (multiple producers, stable countries, ethical sourcing and production, etc.)

3. Ontario production
a) Is Ontario a producer. Industry Expenditure/Profitability ratio.
b) Are there active exploration projects with positive preliminary economic assessments (production in medium term (5-10 years).

4. Can Ontario facilitate the growth of the supply chain.
To be considered a “Critical Mineral / Element” each of the 4 questions must have a positive response. For questions 2 and 3 only one of a} or b} must be positive.

We also recommend the government establish 5-year assessment updates This will support a government CM strategy monitoring program.