Straight Out of Arizona, Copper Country – Move to make Copper Critical Mineral Status

Highlights

• Arizona seeks to add copper to the USGS critical minerals list to support green energy and boost local economic development.
• The Critical Mineral Consistency Act would enable the copper industry to access tax credits and streamlined permitting processes.
• The proposed change highlights the tension between economic growth and environmental protection in resource extraction.

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Arizona lawmakers are championing the addition of copper to the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) critical minerals list, which could bring tax breaks, faster permitting, and streamlined regulation. Copper, essential for electric vehicles, solar panels, and power infrastructure, already accounts for 70% of U.S. production, with most sourced from Arizona. Proponents argue that copper’s designation is critical to meeting the demands of the green energy revolution while boosting Arizona’s $6.2 billion copper industry.

The recent piece was covered by Grace Monos (opens in a new tab) Cronkite News (opens in a new tab), part of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications in Phoenix.

Core Points

The Critical Mineral Consistency Act, (opens in a new tab) passed by the House, seeks to align the USGS and Department of Energy critical mineral lists. While copper is on the Department of Energy’s list, only inclusion on the USGS list would enable access to green energy tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act and FAST-41 permitting benefits. These incentives aim to reduce permitting timelines and attract investment while maintaining environmental protections, according to proponents. The measure has bipartisan support, driven by economic benefits and national security concerns tied to supply chain vulnerabilities.

What’s Missing

The article does not provide a detailed analysis of how streamlined permitting might impact existing environmental safeguards, especially in regions with sensitive ecosystems or cultural significance. It also omits potential alternative strategies to secure copper supplies without expanding mining on public lands.

Assumptions and Biases

Supporters assume that accelerated permitting under FAST-41 can harmonize economic growth with environmental protection, a claim contested by opponents who warn of reduced oversight and public input.  Critics, including environmentalists and some tribal representatives, argue this initiative primarily benefits the mining industry under the guise of national security. The article leans toward highlighting the economic rationale while giving less space to the environmental and tribal concerns raised.

Conclusion

While adding copper to the USGS critical minerals list could bolster Arizona’s economy and support green energy goals, it raises questions about environmental trade-offs and the role of public oversight in mining projects.  This push reflects a broader tension between accelerating resource extraction for clean energy technologies and safeguarding natural and cultural landscapes. Balancing these priorities will require nuanced policymaking to ensure both economic and environmental sustainability.