/ Why Copper Matters

Why Copper Matters

Copper is needed to meet clean energy goals, bolster supply chain resiliency and boost national security. Copper is also integral to everyday society, as it is used in virtually every electronic device made today, including the one you’re using to read this text. Copper is also used in plumbing to keep clean water flowing free of toxins and wiring to maintain comfortably warm and cool climates indoors.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal needs copper to achieve its big goals, as the law has called for the following:

  • 250,000 electric vehicle charging stations – requires ~10 million pounds of copper
  • $2.5 billion for low-emission vehicles – requires ~6 million pounds of copper
  • $2.5 billion for electric school buses – requires ~3 million pounds of copper
  • $15 billion for lead service line replacement – requires ~53-93 million pounds of copper

Copper is also known for its antimicrobial benefits. Copper saves lives and money by killing harmful bacteria. Antimicrobial copper surfaces help reduce the spread of germs and infection by 80%. Copper surfaces can also reduce infection rates by more than 50%. That’s why more hospitals are installing copper surfaces every day around the world.

Put simply – we need copper. With estimates for global copper demand from wind, solar, electric vehicles and battery applications expected to increase by 600%-900% by 2030, it is critical that projects like Resolution Copper are approved to bolster the United States’ copper supply.

Resources

Our Work

Town of Superior Approves Historic Water Agreement with Resolution Copper

The Town of Superior Town Council has unanimously approved a landmark water agreement with Resolution Copper, securing a long-term, more than $20 million water mitigation commitment designed to protect and enhance the community’s water future.

Resolution Copper’s Funding of Globe High School Robotics Lab Prepares Students for Competitive Careers

In the small town of Globe, Arizona, with a population of just over 7,000 people, big ideas for the future are brewing among high school students.

Copper Strong: April Community Impact Across Arizona

Across Arizona, students explored future careers, volunteers served neighbors in need, families gathered at community events, and local partnerships continued creating real impact.

Resolution Copper employee Bryan Seppala awarded 2026 AAED Member of the Year

The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) honored Resolution Copper employee Bryan Seppala, AZED Pro, with the prestigious Member of the Year award.

New Water Recycling System Reduces Annual Use by One Million Gallons

A new Potable Water Recycling System is now operating on site, reducing water use by an estimated one million gallons per year. The system captures clean analyzer water and returns it to the plant for reuse, replacing water that was previously discharged onto the ground.

Reflecting on His Past, Bryan Mines a New Future

Bryan’s family is no stranger to mining. Born and raised in Globe, Bryan grew up watching his father and uncles work at the Magma Copper Mine. The industry was volatile at the time, and Bryan’s father was laid off three different times. Wanting a more stable path for his son, Bryan’s father encouraged him to do anything else for a living. Bryan followed that advice and decided to enroll at the University of Arizona, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in economic development.

Apache Owned Business to Manage Oak Flat Campground

Resolution Copper reaffirms that public access to the Oak Flat Campground, as well as to recreational roads and climbing areas on private land in the Oak Flat area, will remain open for the foreseeable future following completion of a federal land exchange this month.

United States Forest Service and Resolution Copper Complete Land Exchange

The U.S. Forest Service and Resolution Copper, a joint venture owned by Rio Tinto and BHP that represents one of the world's most significant untapped copper deposits, have completed a Federal land exchange required to unlock the full potential of the project.

Eight Years of Emory Oak Restoration and Cultural Stewardship

Across Arizona’s National Forests, Emory oak trees and the restoration of their groves support far more than wildlife and shade. For Western Apache communities, these trees provide acorns that are central to food traditions, ceremonies, and cultural practices that stretch back generations.