Kudos to Representatives Rick Nolan and Tom Emmer for acknowledging the facts on copper/nickel mining and taking the time to teach others. The time is now, we have the technology to mine safely while protecting and enjoying our environment.
Copper is mankind’s oldest and one of our most important metals, dating back more than 10,000 years. According to the House Natural Resources Committee, copper is necessary in every aspect of human existence. In your home copper is in your microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, plumbing, heating and electrical wiring as well as your smartphone, computer and television. At your hospital it’s in the Cat-scan, X-ray, and MRI machines. Copper is an important element in renewable energy and is found in solar panels and hybrid vehicles. Each power generating wind turbine requires 4 tons of copper. It is necessary for our national defense in Stealth bombers, nuclear submarines, sophisticated computers, and communications networks. We could supply all our strategic minerals in the United States, but continue importing from Chile, Peru, Mexico, and China where they pollute their land, water and air, allowing their sulfides to go up the chimney where it becomes acid rain and falls on us.
Continuing to buy minerals such as copper from other countries is environmentally irresponsible. Now is the time, we have the technology to do it here safely. Thank you, Rick Nolan and Tom Emmer, for leading the way!
Linda Maki
Ely
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