Viridian Metals stakes 2,600km² in Labrador’s Seal Basin, advancing copper exploration

Viridian Metals Inc., a leader in generative mineral exploration, has significantly bolstered its position in Newfoundland and Labrador with the acquisition of a massive 2,600km² land package in the Seal Basin. This strategic expansion positions the company as the largest claim holder in the province and reinforces its commitment to unlocking critical mineral deposits, particularly copper, which plays a vital role in advancing the energy transition.

The newly acquired territory, home to over 70 documented copper occurrences, remains largely unexplored despite its inclusion in Newfoundland and Labrador‘s Mineral Occurrence Data System (MODS). With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Viridian is set to redefine copper exploration in this promising region.

Why is Labrador’s Seal Basin critical for copper exploration?

The Seal Basin represents one of Canada‘s most promising exploration regions, offering the geological conditions necessary for copper concentration. Viridian’s claims expand its previous landholdings in the region from 10km² to a remarkable 2,600km², a move described by CEO Tyrell Sutherland as a “testament to the exceptional geological potential” in Labrador.

Historical data recorded during government mapping programs in the 1960s, 1970s, and 2010s identified over 70 copper occurrences within the area. However, many of these sites remain unexamined with modern exploration methods. The underexplored nature of the Seal Basin, combined with advanced data-driven techniques, creates a unique opportunity to discover high-grade copper deposits in a Tier-One mining jurisdiction.

Viridian’s strategy capitalizes on the Seal Basin’s proximity to key infrastructure, such as road networks and power grids, which facilitate efficient exploration and future development. This infrastructure advantage, coupled with the region’s critical mineral deposits, aligns perfectly with the growing global demand for copper as a cornerstone of clean energy systems.

How does Viridian Metals’ focus on sustainability enhance its projects?

Viridian Metals has positioned itself as a pioneer in ethical exploration. The company’s strategy emphasizes environmental responsibility and sustainable practices in mining, ensuring that its projects contribute meaningfully to the global green transition.

“By leveraging modern exploration technologies, we’re not only uncovering mineral wealth but also setting new standards for sustainable mining practices,” said Sutherland. Viridian’s expertise spans critical minerals like copper, nickel, and cobalt—metals essential for decarbonization and renewable energy systems.

The company’s acquisition of Seal Basin claims demonstrates its ability to balance aggressive exploration goals with a commitment to sustainability, creating lasting value for stakeholders.

How is Viridian Metals leveraging the BHP Xplor program to accelerate exploration?

Viridian Metals’ recent selection for the prestigious BHP Xplor program underscores its growing recognition as a leader in critical mineral exploration. As one of only eight companies chosen for the 2025 cohort, Viridian gains access to BHP’s extensive global network, technical expertise, and a US$500,000 non-dilutive grant.

The BHP Xplor initiative, established in 2023, supports innovative companies that demonstrate potential to push industry boundaries. According to BHP Xplor Head Marley Palin, Viridian stood out for its data-driven exploration strategy and commitment to uncovering critical mineral deposits in underexplored regions.

Through the program, Viridian plans to accelerate its exploration timeline by integrating extensive datasets to create geological models for copper targets in the Seal Basin. The insights gained will shape priority exploration zones, further strengthening the company’s foothold in Labrador.

Why does this acquisition matter for the energy transition?

As the demand for critical minerals like copper continues to rise globally, Viridian’s expanded Seal Basin claims could play a pivotal role in supporting the energy transition. Copper’s importance as a key material in electrification, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicles highlights the significance of unlocking new sources in stable jurisdictions like Canada.

The Seal Basin offers a unique opportunity to contribute to this demand while maintaining environmental and ethical exploration standards. Viridian Metals’ focus on copper, combined with its expertise in nickel and cobalt, places the company at the forefront of addressing critical mineral shortages worldwide.

What’s next for Viridian Metals?

Viridian Metals’ dual milestones—its acquisition of Seal Basin claims and its inclusion in the BHP Xplor program—mark the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s growth. With plans to deploy advanced exploration techniques, Viridian is poised to uncover the full potential of this underexplored region.

The company’s innovative approach to sustainable exploration aligns with the industry’s shift towards responsible mining practices, ensuring long-term benefits for the environment, local communities, and the broader energy transition.

As Viridian Metals solidifies its position in Labrador, the company remains focused on setting benchmarks for ethical and efficient mining in the global exploration sector.