US President Donald Trump is prioritizing copper mining as part of his domestic minerals policy, with a new executive order aimed at boosting the industry and improving national security.
The move could lead to increased investment in US copper production, but environmental groups are concerned about the impact on sensitive ecosystems. The Twin Metals project near Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, for example, has been stalled due to opposition from local activists.
Copper is crucial for modern technologies such as rechargeable batteries, LED lights, and flat-screen TVs. It also plays a key role in power transmission lines and electrical grids.
The US imports most of its copper, with Chile being the leading supplier. Trump’s executive order calls for investigating tariffs and tariffs as a response to import issues.
Industry experts welcome the move, citing improved permitting processes and increased funding for mineral research. However, critics argue that the lack of coordination between government agencies has hindered mine development in the past.
As global demand for copper is expected to rise, particularly for construction and electric vehicle production, Trump’s policy could be a step towards securing US resources. The National Mining Association predicts that global demand will double by 2030.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/trump-copper-mining-executive-order-minerals-bf9ce8863558efc2abb6f9563cfc4ebb