Lomiko Metals Inc. is planning to develop a graphite mine in Quebec’s Laurentians, near Duhamel and a wildlife reserve. The proposal has prompted protests from local residents concerned about potential environmental impacts. Opposition also intensified after information emerged about involvement by the Pentagon.
Lomiko Metals received $11.4 million from the U.S. Department of Defence and $4.9 million from Natural Resources Canada. The funding is intended to support converting graphite into battery-grade material for electric vehicles. Local residents raised concerns after learning that the material is described as relevant to defence uses.
Pentagon role and local concerns about intended graphite use
The Pentagon said the graphite would support North American energy supply chains and be used for “defence applications.” Louis Saint-Hilaire, a spokesperson for the Coalition québécoise des lacs incompatibles à l’activité minière, said the project may not be as environmentally friendly as initially claimed. He also expressed concern that the graphite could be used in American military equipment.
Claude Bouffard of the Association pour la protection et l’environnement du Lac-des-Plages said he is not opposed to graphite mining. He stated that his community has not consented to Lomiko’s project and described feeling betrayed by both the company and government. The comments reflect continued resistance tied to how the project is being carried forward.
Studies, regulatory review and timeline for construction
Lomiko Metals plans feasibility and metallurgical studies over the next five years. Quebec’s environmental consultations office, known as BAPE, is expected to review the project before construction begins in 2027. Quebec’s Minister of Natural Resources, Maïté Blanchette Vézina, said mining projects must have local approval.
As the review process approaches, questions remain about how the Pentagon will use the graphite produced by the mine. Jean-François Boulanger, a mineral engineering professor, said purified graphite is used for batteries. He added that non-purified graphite has industrial uses, including in military applications.
Supply-chain strategy and funding conditions
Teresa Kramarz of the University of Toronto said securing graphite supply chains is strategically important because China dominates production. She highlighted fears among local residents related to environmental degradation and economic dependency. Kramarz also pointed to the need for democratic community involvement in decisions connected to such projects.
Natural Resources Canada stated that its funding does not provide privileged access to produced graphite for Canada or the U.S. Boulanger said he suspects discussions about securing graphite supplies are likely underway. Natural Resources Canada’s clarification addressed access arrangements tied to the funding.