Thetford Mines, a pillar of carbon sequestration in Quebec

Posted on November 24, 2025 (November 24, 2025)

Thetford Mines, November 24, 2025. The City of Thetford Mines enthusiastically welcomes the recent notice "Defining Quebec's climate ambition: decarbonization targets and pathways", published by the Advisory Committee on Climate Change. This report finally recognizes, in an explicit and structured manner, the major role that permanent geological carbon sequestration must play in achieving carbon neutrality in Quebec.

A MAJOR TURNING POINT FOR QUEBEC,
A STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY FOR THETFORD MINES

For Mayor Marc-Alexandre Brousseau, the Committee's conclusions are coherent, ambitious, and perfectly aligned with the region's unique potential: "The Committee's recommendations confirm what we have been saying for a long time: Quebec needs a strong, regulated, and structured CO₂ sequestration sector. Thetford has one of the environments offering the greatest potential to host such projects."

The report specifies that by 2045, carbon neutrality will have to be based on:

85% direct reduction in emissions;
15% permanent carbon sequestration, making it an essential pillar of Quebec's strategy.

He also recommends:

Determine the potential for carbon capture and storage in Quebec;
Establish a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework;
Rapidly deploy pilot projects for permanent sequestration across Quebec, which is currently being done in Thetford.

THETFORD MINES: A KEY TERRITORY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PERMANENT SEQUESTRATION
The City points out that its territory, rich in geology resulting from past mining activity, possesses structural characteristics ideal for hosting projects for the permanent capture and sequestration of CO₂. The report emphasizes that geological sequestration, such as mineralization, is the only permanent and scientifically recognized solution for addressing Quebec's residual emissions.

According to Mayor Brousseau, "Thetford has mining expertise, a territory already shaped by human activity, and a thriving innovation ecosystem. It can and must be part of Quebec's climate solutions."

A CALL TO THE GOVERNMENT: ACT QUICKLY

The City of Thetford Mines encourages the Quebec government to implement the Committee's recommendations without delay, including:

Establish the legal and regulatory framework governing the capture, transport and sequestration of CO₂;
Define long-term responsibilities, technical standards and governance mechanisms;
Include host municipalities in decisions, particularly those where permanent sequestration would be practiced.

"We are ready to fully collaborate with the Quebec government to deploy structuring projects, scientifically validated and generating regional economic benefits," added Mayor Brousseau.

A POTENTIAL FOR ECONOMIC AND SCIENTIFIC DEVELOPMENT IN MINING REGIONS

The City emphasizes that the Committee's recommendations directly align with the approach that Thetford has been advocating for several years:

Transforming its mining heritage into an engine of innovation;
To welcome new large-scale projects;
To actively contribute to Quebec's carbon neutrality objectives;
To generate sustainable economic benefits for the region.

ABOUT THETFORD MINES

Located in the heart of the Appalachians, Thetford Mines is a city undergoing a major transformation, committed to economic diversification, the rehabilitation of its mining sites, and environmental innovation. With its unique territory, industrial expertise, and a network of engaged organizations, the City intends to play a strategic role in Quebec's climate transition, particularly through the development of CO₂ capture and geological sequestration projects.