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Western Copper and Gold Announces ESE Statement Submission

On October 6, 2025, Western Copper and Gold Corporation (TSX: WRN, NYSE American: WRN) took a significant step forward by submitting its Environmental and Socio-economic Effects Statement (ESE Statement) for the Casino Project to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB). This major milestone is a crucial part of the panel review process under the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act (YESAA), and it signifies progress towards obtaining the necessary permits for the Casino Project.

Significance of the ESE Statement Submission

The ESE Statement provides a comprehensive assessment of the potential environmental and socio-economic impacts related to the project. It addresses various Valued Environmental and Socio-economic Components (VESECs) and outlines the environmental management measures the company plans to implement. According to the assessment, any residual effects from the project are considered not significant due to thorough planning, effective management strategies, and monitoring plans.

Shena Shaw, Vice President of Environmental and Community Affairs, highlighted that the submission reflects years of careful planning and showcases a commitment to environmental and social responsibility. She emphasized that the project aims to offer long-term benefits for all Yukoners and that ongoing collaboration with local communities and First Nations is vital.

Positive Economic Impact Projections

The Casino Project is anticipated to be a powerful driver of economic growth in the Yukon and Canada at large. A study conducted by MNP, a leading Canadian accounting and consulting firm, estimates that the project could contribute over C$44 billion to Canada’s GDP over its 27-year mine life. This projection includes an impressive C$37 billion expected from the Yukon alone, utilizing conservative commodity price forecasts of US$3.60/lb Cu and US$1,700/oz Au.

The project is set to create approximately 700 direct jobs, while also generating another 2,000 indirect jobs through local suppliers and contractors, translating into over C$12 billion in wages and salaries during the lifespan of the project. Also noteworthy is the potential tax revenue, which could reach C$175 million annually for the Yukon government and C$231 million for the federal government.

Positioning Casino as a Key Resource Producer

The Casino Project is poised to become one of North America’s leading producers of copper and molybdenum, two critical minerals essential for economic growth. The operation is expected to rank as Canada’s second-largest copper producer and the largest molybdenum producer, significantly boosting domestic production by 15% for copper and an extraordinary 500% for molybdenum.

Sandeep Singh, President and CEO of Western Copper and Gold Corporation, praised the submission as a significant achievement and stressed that the company remains deeply committed to adhering to the highest environmental and socio-economic standards during the project's advancement. He reiterated the company’s goal of fostering a collaborative relationship with Yukoners, First Nations, and local communities throughout the regulatory process.

Next Steps in the Approval Process

Looking ahead, YESAB will conduct a review of the ESE Statement, which will be made publicly available on its online registry. Following this, the Executive Committee at YESAB will perform a sufficiency check to ensure the statement adheres to the guidelines established for such submissions. They will also prepare to establish the Panel of the Board that will oversee a comprehensive assessment of the project.

In summary, Western Copper and Gold Corporation’s submission of the ESE Statement is a pivotal move forward in the Casino Project development. With the promise of significant economic and environmental benefits, the project stands as a beacon of hope for responsible resource development in the Yukon, and its completion could pave the way for decades of growth and prosperity in the region.