A large area of northern Canada is to be opened to mining, energy and forestry projects.
The government of Quebec has announced a massive plan to develop a largely inhospitable but untouched area in the north of the province.
The ''Plan Nord'' aims to turn 1.2 million sq km of land into a major area of mining and renewable energy.
The BBC reports the region is rich in deposits of nickel, cobalt, platinum, zinc, iron ore and rare earth minerals.
The plan also aims to ensure that half of the area will be environmentally protected.
''It is one of the world's last virgin territories,'' said Premier Jean Charest.
''It's also a fragile territory and a territory of great richness and it's also a responsibility.''
The BBC reports the plan includes 11 new mining projects, mainly hydro-electric projects, sustainable forestry and a huge infrastructure programme.
Northern Canada is so remote that new roads, airports and a deep sea port will have to built to get the raw materials to the outside world.
