Copper is one of the oldest metals known to man. It plays a major role in driving today’s “green” technologies. Copper contributes in many capacities to a more sustainable atmosphere, including creating more efficient wind turbines and farms, solar energy panel grids, transformers, energy efficient motors and residential and commercial green building.

New Mexico copper mines are designed and operated to comply with all applicable laws and regulations and to minimize environmental impacts using risk management strategies based on science. New Mexico copper miners review and account for the environmental effects of their activity, including exploration, mining and processing; and planning and conducting the design, development, operation and closure of each mine in a manner that reduces adverse environmental effects.

New Mexico protects the environment and the public today by requiring mines to operate under discharge permits that regulate ground water quality. After operations at a mine cease, New Mexico requires all mines to close the mine consistent with a detailed reclamation and closure plan.