The United States strategically takes proactive steps to free its critical minerals supply chains from foreign nations and boost domestic mining. Notably, U.S. Representatives have announced the launch of a Critical Minerals Policy Working Group to accomplish this objective. Beyond ensuring national security, domestic mining has the potential to drive national and local economies, especially in Arizona, which is home to several copper operations.
Domestic mining stimulates local economies by utilizing local workforce, vendors, and suppliers. In particular, copper mining will benefit Arizona’s economy, the location of some of the largest copper deposits in the United States.
For example, Resolution Copper, which has the potential to provide up to 25% of the United States copper demand for the next 60 years, will deliver significant economic benefits to both the small town of Superior and the entire state.
Resolution Copper will produce up to $61 billion in Arizona’s economic value over the course of its 60-year lifespan. At full production, Resolution Copper will provide over 1,500 direct jobs, paying employees $134 million in wages and benefits each year while supporting over 2,220 indirect jobs in the surrounding area. The company already purchases goods and services locally, and Resolution Copper has invested more than $2 billion into the project. Rick Grinnell, co-founder of the Southern Arizona Business Coalition, stated, “Continued high demand for copper due to green energy needs and other forces will ultimately lead to more production and employment — not immediately, but in the next five to 10 years.”
Resolution Copper is just one example of how mining can be an economic driver to towns across Arizona.
As the energy and digital transition continues to be a priority, the United States needs to find ways to secure enough copper to reach its electrification and digitalization objectives and build more renewable energy infrastructure. Working towards this goal will naturally lead to educational and professional opportunities.
The copper industry’s development also drives innovation and produces new skill sets and jobs, especially where environmental considerations are a priority. For example, Resolution Copper is leveraging cutting-edge technology to become one of Arizona’s most water-efficient copper mines. These developments enable safer and more efficient mining practices, leading to new vocations in engineering, data, 3D visualization, and AI.
Domestic mining can lead to many prospects and job opportunities in Arizona and nationwide. Strategic mining projects and new jobs that drive innovation are the keys to unlocking new areas of economic growth and prosperity in the mining sector. Our collective responsibility is to support these projects and ensure that domestic copper projects can receive the necessary permits to begin operations.