The company has developed an "electrocoagulation" reactor called ECOTHOR that can remove heavy metals, emulsified oils, phosphates, ammonia and other contaminants from wastewater.

"We are going to make cleaning up mining wastewater less energy-intensive, because it saves money and lowers emissions. This investment is good for mining, good for our water, and good for the planet," said Seamus O'Regan, Canada's minister of natural resources.

E2Metrix will collaborate with research body CanmetMINING on the engineering support and testing of pilot-scale technology to treat the wastewater.

"Developing Canada's mining and minerals industry in more sustainable ways is key to our transition to a clean energy future. The Government of Canada continues to invest in innovative green technology projects that will grow our economy and support a more sustainable future for all," said Élisabeth Brière, parliamentary secretary to the minister of economic development.

The project is funded through Natural Resources Canada's Clean Growth Program, which invests in clean technology research and development projects in mining and other sectors.