Natural Resources Canada's Minerals and Metals Sector (MMS) is the federal government's primary source of scientific and technological knowledge as well as policy advice, on both Canada's mineral and metal resources and on explosives technology. Our expertise in science and technology is housed in three of Canada's premier scientific research institutions:
MMS's mission is to advise the government on—and to advance its agenda for—the economic, social, environmental, scientific and technological spheres through the development and use of minerals and metals. An important role for MMS is to generate and share knowledge as a basis for sound decision-making that affects the sustainable development of minerals and metals for all Canadians.
Championing Innovation
MMS promotes the development of technologies and approaches consistent with the principles of SD that contribute to improved efficiency in resource development and production processes, and that result in enhanced value-added and high-growth opportunities for mineral and metal sector industries.
Ensuring a Strong International Voice for Canada
The Sector's international activities span bilateral, regional and international policy development; science and technology transfer and capacity building; international business development and the promotion of an SD-based business climate; and, investment activities. Partnerships with industry, foreign governments and other stakeholders are key to achieving and demonstrating excellence in performance.
Contributing to the Health, Safety and Security of Canadian Communities
MMS works to develop expertise and technologies that reduce potential health and safety risks associated with the development and use of minerals, metals and explosives, and to promote environmental stewardship in mineral development and processing, including resource recovery and recycling. Building capacity within Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities to participate in decisions about mineral resources that affect them contributes to greater self-sufficiency and social stability in their communities.
Sustaining a Vibrant and Responsible Canadian Industry
MMS works to promote a fair and competitive policy and fiscal framework for Canadian mineral industries, including a transparent, predictable, and rules based international trade regime. Together with other government departments and the international community, MMS promotes the use of sound science as an essential component in all policy decisions affecting resource materials.
MMS's activities and partnerships provide an opportunity to demonstrate Canadian know-how and expertise in a wide range of issues related to sustainable development, such as: safe use of minerals and metals, life-cycle assessment, product stewardship, science-based decision-making, and advances in science and technology related to: mining technology, mitigation of environmental impacts of mineral and metal development, and mine decommissioning and site reclamation.
We invite you to explore the links below to find out more.
