Generation Mining has announced that the final construction permit for the Marathon Copper-Palladium Project in Canada has been granted.

The Environmental Compliance Approval – Industrial Sewage Works (ECA-ISW) permit is the last of the necessary approvals required to begin construction on what is set to become Canada's next major critical mineral venture.

The permit from the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks paves the way for water management and discharge during the construction phase of the Marathon Project.

Generation Mining president and CEO Jamie Levy said: “With this final permit, Generation believes that the Marathon Project will be a major step forward in securing domestic supplies of copper and palladium – essential elements for clean energy and advanced technologies.

“The completion of construction permitting was one of our key objectives for this year, and securing construction financing is now the final milestone to be able to move the Marathon Project forward. With a shovel-ready plan and strong community support, the Marathon Project has the potential to deliver critical minerals, create skilled jobs and strengthen the Canadian supply chain for a more resilient future.”

Located along the Trans-Canada Highway in north-western Ontario, the project is expected to yield 3.6 million ounces (moz) of palladium equivalent (PdEq) over its 13-year lifespan.

The Marathon Project will involve the construction, operation and eventual decommissioning of three open pits that will produce copper concentrate that includes copper, palladium and platinum – minerals critical to various industries.

Generation Mining vice-president of sustainability Ruben Wallin said: “The receipt of the ECA-ISW marks the completion of the construction phase approvals process for the project. The company greatly appreciates the indigenous communities, the town of Marathon, and the federal and provincial government agencies that were involved in the process over the past five years.

“The company would also like to recognise the hard work and dedication of our employees and consultants, present and past, in achieving this significant milestone for the project.”

In March, Generation Mining secured permits from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) to begin construction.

The MNR had granted all three outstanding approvals for infrastructure construction related to the water management structures at the project under the Lakes and Rivers Improvement Act.