A ban on coal mining in the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, which has been in place for nearly 50 years has been lifted by the Alberta government. The Eastern Rockies are popular with hikers, climbers, skiers, kayakers and more, and home to a wide variety of wildlife. Now they are under threat after Alberta Energy Minister Brian Jean reversed government orders preventing mining in the area that have been in place since 1976.
Opponents say there was no public consultation, although lawmakers signalled their intention to overturn the ban last year. The announcement means that mining operations that were started in 2020, then paused again because of public outcry, can now resume. New coal mine exploration can begin and new applications for coal projects can be submitted.
In a statement, conservation charity, the , said: "This is a profoundly short-sighted and irresponsible decision by the Minister of Energy and Minerals that puts the health, future and prosperity of Alberta, and our communities, at grave risk. "We will be fiercely opposing this new direction — and we know we won't be alone. Albertans have fought this fight before and won.
" The organization has long been campaigning for the protection of the mountains and foothills from coal mining, citing them as home to world-class hiking, fishing, and camping and home to grizzly bears, native trout, and sensitive alpine species. A statement on its website reads: "The Bighorn Backcountry hosts some of the most.
