In this episode, I sit down with Lyle Trytten — the self-proclaimed “Nickel Nerd” and global expert in mineral processing and sustainability — to explore the lesser-discussed stages of the mineral supply chain. We cover the differences between mining, processing, and refining; what tailings really are and why they matter; and where the real ESG impacts happen in the value chain. If you think mining stops when the ore hits the deck, this episode is for you.

🕐 Timestamps:

* 02:58 — Lyle’s background: From Alberta to global projects

* 11:31 — Why the conversation around mining vs. processing is too shallow

* 13:57 — What’s the difference between mining, processing, and refining?

* 18:54 — What are tailings? Why do they matter?

* 24:54 — Tailings as potential carbon sinks… or pollution sources

* 27:37 — Why no two tailings sites are the same

* 31:22 — What happens during the refining stage

* 36:09 — “Everything wants to be rust”: Oxides, reduction, and metals

* 39:56 — Where mining impacts really happen along the value chain

* 41:56 — Breaking down ESG into land, air, and water impacts

* 46:45 — Why Russia’s nickel plant is still the world’s biggest SO₂ emitter

Theme music Tamarack by Jesse Matas

🔗 Links & Resources:

* Follow Lyle Trytten on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyle-trytten/

* Read his white papers on sustainability in the resource industry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyle-trytten/recent-activity/documents/

* 🎧 Listen to Part 2 of this interview →

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