Coral Harbour Non-Hazardous Surface Debris Consolidation Project
This project on Southampton Island in Nunavut addressed the remediation of surface and sub-surface military waste that had persisted for over 70 years in the Inuit community of Salliq (Coral Harbour). This work required innovative approaches to logistical, environmental, and workforce challenges, ensuring the project’s success while respecting local traditions and practices.
Project Scope
Manual collection, consolidation, and disposal of non-hazardous debris from five environmental concern areas.
Segregation and safe handling of hazardous materials, ensuring environmental protection.
Key Challenges and Solutions
Debris Collection Definition: Lack of clarity on the low-end size of debris to be collected.
Developed a clear guideline, with stakeholder input, defining collection criteria to include debris as small as thumb-sized pieces.
Personnel Constraints: Workforce disruptions due to local hunting and fishing schedules.
Over-resourced the project with a pool of trained local personnel, allowing flexibility for traditional activities while maintaining project timelines.
Community Engagement
Employed 19 residents, with 87% of all hours worked by Inuit personnel.
Delivered over 50% more Inuit employment hours than initially planned, building capacity and fostering community involvement.
Environmental Stewardship
Conducted meticulous segregation and disposal of waste materials to protect the environment.
Navigated the logistical constraints of a remote Arctic location with limited access by air and sea.