For Immediate Release: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Contacts:
Josh Johnson, Central Idaho Director, (208) 345-6933 x 301
Abby Urbanek, Communications & Marketing Manager, (208) 345-6933 x 214
Idaho Conservation League Unveils New Mining Report Emphasizing Environmental Risks and Need for Best Practices
BOISE, ID – The Idaho Conservation League (ICL) is announcing the release of a comprehensive report that outlines the environmental impacts of mining, provides an inventory of notable mining projects across Idaho, and delves into mining law reform, best practices for projects, and the role of mining in the clean energy transition. The report—Unearthing Idaho: Mining and Environmental Impacts in the Gem State—also offers guidance for citizens concerned about proposed mines, for mining companies that aim to mine responsibly in Idaho, and for regulatory agencies in charge of permitting and overseeing mining operations.
Mining is widely recognized as one of the most environmentally impactful forms of resource extraction on our planet. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, mining remains the nation’s leading source of toxic releases to the environment. However, we use metals and other mined materials every day, from our cars to our smartphones to our fertilizers. Battery metals, such as cobalt and lithium, are also becoming more important as a global transition from gas-powered to electric vehicles picks up steam.
“There is a ton of mining activity occurring statewide from early-stage exploration all the way through operating and long-abandoned mines,” said Josh Johnson, Central Idaho Director with ICL. “This extensive mining has already left permanent scars on Idaho’s landscape and has the potential to do significantly more damage if future projects are constructed in sensitive areas and/or without the proper environmental safeguards.”
The report highlights best practices that both the permitting agencies and mining companies can implement to improve projects from an environmental standpoint. These practices include early and often dialogue with key stakeholders, meaningful tribal consultation, and robust monitoring, reclamation, and mitigation.
ICL will continue to track mining projects across the state. ICL remains committed to evaluating all mining projects on a case-by-case basis, opposing those that are in too sensitive a location and/or are too environmentally impactful while raising the bar on other projects by promoting the best practices highlighted in this report.
“While we do need mining to some degree, we do not need to say yes to it everywhere and every time,” concluded Johnson. “What we always need, however, is clean air, clean water, and a safe environment for ourselves and our families.”
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ICL’s mission is to create a conservation community and pragmatic, enduring solutions that protect and restore the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the land and wildlife you love.