The U.S. mining industry is poised for significant growth with a strong focus on increasing domestic mineral production and refining capabilities. A particular emphasis has been placed on critical and highly important minerals like copper, nickel and lithium, which are essential for the energy sector and enhancing national security. President Trump recently signed an executive order to increase domestic minerals production for national security. This executive order expedites permitting for priority mining projects on federal lands, leveraging the Defense Production Act. Efforts to streamline permitting and bolster processing infrastructure indicate the new administration is making strides toward reducing reliance on foreign sources.
Hans Wronka, a geologist and department manager at Burns & McDonnell, interviews Ryan Sistad, executive director at Better In Our Backyard, about the direction the mining industry is headed. Better In Our Back Yard is a coalition dedicated to advocating for projects and companies focused on the responsible development of natural resources and related industries. Hans, a member of the coalition’s board, brings nearly 30 years of experience to his role serving Burns & McDonnell clients in the energy, transportation, manufacturing and natural resource industries.
Can you give us an overview of your coalition and how its mission applies today?
Better In Our Back Yard promotes responsible industrial development that supports economic growth while protecting the environment. Originally developed in Minnesota, our model is built to be scalable and expand nationwide to advocate for projects like pipelines, mines, and copper and oil refineries that drive regional development. Better In Our Back Yard focuses on education, community engagement and policy advocacy to highlight how industrial progress and environmental responsibility can coexist, fostering economic opportunities across the country.
Why is it crucial to advocate for mining and processing critical minerals in the U.S.?
Domestic mining and mineral processing are critical for the U.S. due to economic, national security and strategic supply chain concerns. The U.S. currently lacks sufficient domestic production and processing facilities for many key minerals, such as antimony, copper, nickel and lithium.
Taking antimony as an example, China and Russia control much of the global supply. Having such a strong reliance on foreign sources creates vulnerabilities for the U.S. The shortage of domestic mines and processing centers for critical minerals leaves the country at risk of supply chain disruptions and economic disadvantages, especially if geopolitical tensions lead to export bans.
To promote national security and economic stability, the U.S. and its aligned partners, must develop at least one operational mine and processing center for each critical mineral, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and securing control over its own resources.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about the mining industry and why is it important to address them?
A major misconception about the mining industry is that it still operates with outdated practices that harm the environment. Many critics point to past disasters from 30 to 50 years ago, or mining issues overseas, overlooking the fact that U.S. mining follows some of the world’s strictest environmental and labor protections. Modern mining is safer, more sustainable and highly regulated.
Developing these resources domestically, keeping jobs and economic benefits in local communities rather than relying on facilities abroad. It’s important to amplify the voices of local communities that recognize the importance of responsible mining for economic growth and national security.
What trends are you seeing in mining that businesses and communities should be paying attention to?
One major trend in mining is the growing recognition of the importance of domestic mining, with tariffs and investments being considered to boost domestic production. This shift is a breath of fresh air for those in the mining industry, signaling potential job growth and new project opportunities. However, while some projects benefit from supportive policies, others face regulatory roadblocks, highlighting inconsistencies in how mining projects are approved.
A key trend to watch is the push for a more even playing field — where projects are judged based on merits, such as strong labor protections and environmental safeguards. Positive reinforcement for responsible mining is gaining momentum, emphasizing the need for stable policies that support all well-planned projects. Communities and businesses should pay attention to how these shifting policies shape the future of mining, particularly as demand for critical minerals continues to rise.
The bipartisan support mining is currently receiving will help reduce the amount of time it takes to permit mines. We’re not talking about circumventing safeguards and environmental concerns, but projects need certainty that they will get permitted and not spend close to 30 years trying to acquire a permit.
How can businesses, policymakers and community members get involved?
Businesses can support by partnering in events, sharing industry knowledge and promoting responsible industrial development that benefits local economies. Policymakers can engage by collaborating on legislation that encourages domestic mining and refining while maintaining high environmental and labor standards. Community members can get involved by attending forums, learning about the economic and national security benefits of domestic resource development, and voicing their support for responsible projects in their respective regions. Our coalition is actively engaged in supporting such efforts.
As the mining industry continues to expand, thoughtful solutions need to be in place to boost the economy and address energy security. Discover the context for what could be a coming rush for mining projects in the near future.