The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from Apaches seeking to block a copper mine on land in Arizona considered sacred, allowing Resolution Copper, a subsidiary of Rio Tinto and BHP, to proceed with the project. The ruling upholds lower court decisions permitting the transfer of Tonto National Forest land for the mine, which is estimated to contain the second-largest known copper deposit and generate $1 billion annually for Arizona's economy. Dissenting justices, along with Apache Stronghold, argue the project will destroy a site vital to Apache spiritual well-being, while supporters emphasize the economic benefits and job creation.
The Supreme Court's decision to reject an appeal aimed at halting Resolution Copper's mining project at Oak Flat, Arizona, marks a significant legal victory for the joint venture partners, Rio Tinto and BHP. This ruling upholds lower court decisions, facilitating the transfer of Tonto National Forest land for the development of what is reportedly the world's second-largest known copper deposit, estimated to contain 40 billion pounds of copper. The project carries substantial economic projections, including an anticipated $1 billion annual contribution to Arizona's economy and the creation of thousands of local jobs. However, the project remains contentious, with Apache Stronghold and dissenting Supreme Court justices, notably Neil Gorsuch, raising serious concerns about the destruction of a site sacred to Apache tribes and its implications for religious freedom. While the Trump administration had pushed for the land transfer, and the U.S. Forest Service is now expected to re-issue the necessary environmental review following a court order, the ongoing opposition underscores persistent ESG risks. Justice Alito's recusal, reportedly due to holding BHP stock, highlights the direct financial interests involved.
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