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New York, NY--Lily James, the Global Ambassador for the Natural Diamond Council, will visit the Northwest Territories (NWT), Canada, to investigate the diamond mining industry's social and environmental responsibilities. Her visit follows a previous trip to Botswana, highlighting the importance of ethical mining practices.

[Image by Arctic Canadian Diamond Company via NDC]

Canada ranks as the third-largest diamond producer globally, with exports valued at $2.25 billion in 2019. The NWT's diamond discovery in the 1990s has positioned Canada as a significant source of high-quality diamonds, including rare finds such as the 552.74-carat yellow diamond at Rio Tinto's Diavik mine and a 71.26-carat yellow diamond discovered in 2022.

The diamond industry contributes about 25% to the NWT's GDP, leading to economic growth and substantial benefits for local businesses and Indigenous communities, with nearly $18 billion in diamond recovery benefits. The industry also supports education and skill development through organizations like the Mine Training Society.

Environmental stewardship is a priority, with efforts to reduce carbon emissions and protect local wildlife and ecosystems. This includes using alternative energy sources, such as wind turbines at the Diavik mine.

James' itinerary includes visiting notable diamond mining sites and facilities, such as the Gahcho Kué Diamond Mine and Rio Tinto's Yellowknife splitting facility. The trip also features cultural experiences with Yellowknife's Dene First Nation and insights into the diamond journey, from mining to the final product.