Utah must strike a balance between extracting renewable energy and protecting people's health.
(Leah Hogsten | The Salt Lake Tribune) Kilgore Gravel Quarry on Monday, February 27, 2023. This quarry has been in operation for more than a century near the mouth of Parley's Canyon.
Utah is on the cusp of a transformative opportunity to expand our renewable energy capacity, clean our air and climate, and improve our overall quality of life. As a state, we have abundant renewable energy potential such as solar, wind and geothermal resources that, when combined with storage technologies such as batteries, are sufficient, affordable and reliable to fuel growth. We can provide highly sustainable energy.
With $5.3 billion in direct and indirect benefits expected from renewable energy projects between 2007 and 2023, Utah could serve as a model for building renewable energy in conservative states. It hides its sexuality.
But the elephant in the room remains mine. The International Energy Agency predicts that demand for minerals will quadruple by 2040 as the world seeks to meet key climate goals. While the Governor's 2022 Energy Plan emphasizes support for “…a clean energy future through responsible mining,” the Utah Legislature's bill weakens public health and environmental protections and reduces opportunities for public comment. On the other hand, it is trying to encourage the expansion of mines.
The current legislative landscape reveals a clear intent to expand mining production across the board, from open-pit gravel mines in Parleys Canyon to dry lithium brine operations in southeastern Utah. And it's true. The introduction of renewable energy technologies will lead to a surge in demand for minerals such as copper, nickel, lithium and cobalt, which are key components in electric vehicles and solar cells. Innovations in recycling, efficiency, resource recovery and transportation can reduce the need for new materials. But mining is likely to play a role, especially in the early stages of this transition.
But whether at the state or federal level, bypassing the conservation process in favor of quick projects is a recipe for disaster. Current laws lack adequate safeguards for public health and communities, and prioritize the interests of domestic and foreign mining companies over the rights of citizens. Blindly expanding mines, reducing public input, and blocking environmental review will have far-reaching unintended consequences for our state.
Mining has a mixed legacy characterized by environmental pollution and social harm. Historically, mining companies have left behind a trail of toxic pollution that poses threats to human health, ecosystems, and water quality. Outdated laws like the General Mining Act of 1872 encourage irresponsible behavior and cost taxpayers billions of dollars in cleanup costs. A 2020 Deseret News investigation found that legacy mines on the Wasatch Front pose a significant threat to drinking water and habitat, and a General Accounting Office (GAO) report from the same year found that 13 More than 240,000 abandoned hard rock mines have been identified in the state, likely a huge number. Underestimate. On the Navajo Nation alone, communities have suffered from contamination from more than 500 abandoned uranium mines for more than half a century.
Where and when mining companies have operated more responsibly is largely due to the existence of strong systems of regulation, enforcement, and consumer demand. In 2022, the total group revenue of the world's top 40 mining companies was US$711 billion. Demand is high, prices are high, and profits are even higher. These companies can, and indeed must, make improvements in people and places.
What is needed, however, is clear and enforceable legislation that prioritizes public health, public welfare and community participation, especially those affected. Utah must strike a balance between extracting renewable energy and protecting people's health. You can do this before embarking on a new project, but there is an urgent need to act now.
Lawmakers here in Utah have a unique opportunity to lead our nation. Modernize the regulatory framework, embrace mining certification, regulate re-mining, formalize community consultation, and implement strong environmental safeguards without compromising the health and well-being of Utah residents. You can ensure you reach your renewable energy goals. Additionally, strategies such as mine mitigation, demand reduction, public transport, recycling, and waste collection must be integral to the transition to clean energy.
It's time for lawmakers to act to ensure a positive and responsible business environment in Utah through clear guidelines and mandates that companies wishing to do business in Utah must do the right thing in accordance with the people of Utah. is coming.
HEAL Utah advocates for an energy transition that learns from past mistakes and prioritizes the health and safety of our communities. In the face of crises such as climate change and the drying of the Great Salt Lake, protecting water sources is more important than ever. In a warming world, water is becoming increasingly scarce and increasingly precious. We can't afford to compromise on quality. This is another reason why we should seek more protection, not less. By acting decisively and responsibly, Utah can lead the way to a sustainable future that benefits both our citizens and the environment.
Lexi Tuddenham I am the executive director of HEAL Utah.
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