Historic Decision: Nova Scotia Greenlights Uranium Exploration After Four Decades
Nova Scotia’s Uranium Ban Ends After 44 Years – A Game-Changer for Canada’s Energy Sector
Editorial Team (ET)July 27, 2025
Nova Scotia is poised to end its 44-year moratorium on uranium exploration and mining, a decision that could reshape the province’s resource industry and economic landscape. The move, introduced through new legislation, aims to repeal the ban that has been in place since the 1981 provincial election.
The announcement has reignited debate between industry advocates and environmental groups, with supporters touting economic benefits and technological advancements, while critics raise concerns over environmental safety and sustainability.
A History of Restriction and Renewed Interest
Uranium-bearing minerals were first identified in Nova Scotia in the early 20th century, but exploration remained sporadic. It wasn’t until a 1976 Geological Survey of Canada report confirmed the province’s uranium potential that a wave of staking and exploration activity took off. By 1977, more than 800,000 hectares were covered under uranium exploration licenses.
However, growing public opposition and environmental concerns led to the 1981 moratorium, which was later solidified into law by the NDP government in 2009.
Now, with global energy markets evolving and nuclear power seen as a key solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the province is reconsidering its stance.
Industry Advocates Welcome the Decision
The Mining Association of Nova Scotia (MANS) has strongly supported lifting the ban, arguing that the prohibition has stifled investment and economic opportunities for decades.
Sean Kirby, executive director of MANS, echoed Premier Tim Houston’s call to “take the ‘no’ out of Nova Scotia,” criticizing the ban as an example of “lazy public policy.” He pointed to modern uranium mining techniques that have dramatically reduced environmental risks, including the elimination of traditional tailings ponds through more mechanized and remotely operated extraction processes.
Kirby also noted that uranium is classified as a critical mineral at the federal level, yet Nova Scotia has been unable to capitalize on its potential due to outdated legislation.
The Economic and Environmental Stakes
Lifting the uranium ban could open the door to a major economic boost for Nova Scotia’s mining sector, which currently employs over 3,000 people, mostly in rural areas. The industry already provides well-paying jobs, with an average annual compensation of C$102,000 ($72,000). Expanding into uranium mining could bring further employment and investment.
Public sentiment is also shifting. Recent polling data indicates that 54% of Nova Scotians support uranium exploration and mining, while only 22% remain opposed. Advocates point to Saskatchewan’s uranium mining industry as a successful model, where 83% of residents back the sector.
On the environmental front, proponents argue that uranium mining plays a key role in the transition to cleaner energy. Canada, along with 21 other nations, has committed to tripling nuclear power generation by 2050 as part of global net-zero targets. Given its vast uranium reserves, Nova Scotia has the potential to be part of this shift.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite strong industry support, lifting the ban won’t be without challenges. Opponents warn that uranium mining poses long-term environmental risks, including groundwater contamination and radioactive waste management.
Another complication is the division of jurisdiction. While uranium exploration falls under provincial oversight, mining and processing are regulated federally by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. This could lead to regulatory hurdles as the province attempts to integrate uranium mining into its broader resource strategy.
The coming months will see heated debates as stakeholders—including government officials, industry leaders, and environmental advocates—weigh the economic benefits against environmental concerns.
Conclusion
Nova Scotia’s move to lift its uranium mining ban represents a major shift in policy, one that could unlock economic growth and align the province with Canada’s national energy strategy. However, balancing economic ambitions with environmental responsibility will be critical as the debate unfolds.
