Opponents of the Copper World mine are challenging a state air quality permit. They believe Arizona should have enforced stricter regulations to protect the environment.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) issued the permit on January 2. They concluded, based on computer models, that the mine’s emissions would comply with federal air quality standards. Hudbay Minerals Inc., the company behind the project, also provided analysis claiming the same.
This permit is the last step needed for the $1.7 billion copper project, which will be located in the Santa Rita Mountains, about 28 miles southeast of Tucson. While the permit is valid for five years, it can be renewed.
In their appeal filed last Thursday, opposition groups argue that ADEQ wrongly issued a Class II permit. They contend this type of permit has fewer restrictions and less oversight than necessary for such a large project.
Organizations like the Center for Biological Diversity and Save the Scenic Santa Ritas filed the appeal. Jeremy Nichols, an advocate for the biodiversity group, emphasized that a Class I permit would offer stronger protections.
ADEQ stated they do not comment on ongoing litigation, but they will send the appeal to the Office of Administrative Hearings. If there is no settlement, a hearing will commence, and its decision can be appealed to Superior Court.
Hudbay is reviewing the appeal and intends to take part in the process. They believe ADEQ conducted a thorough review and will defend the permit’s approval in court.
The mine aims to extract copper for up to 20 years. Hudbay claims it will create 400 permanent jobs, with the potential for up to 3,000 additional jobs indirectly. The project is expected to generate over $850 million in U.S. taxes, including around $170 million for Arizona.
However, opponents argue that the permit does not include advanced measures to control pollution, such as enclosing mining stockpiles or using modern engineering for waste management. They worry that dust and toxins could impact nearby communities, particularly homes and schools near the mine site.
Currently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not review Class II permits, which adds another layer of concern for the community. Nichols pointed out that having federal oversight is vital in protecting against air pollution.
Opposition groups highlighted that the mine could emit up to 196 tons of particulate matter per year. They argue this far exceeds the 100-ton threshold needed for a Class I permit, which would require stricter controls and oversight.
Additionally, trucks traveling on Santa Rita Road to and from the mine could also kick up significant dust. The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality raised concerns about the road’s readiness for heavy industrial traffic.
In response, Hudbay acknowledged these concerns and expressed a willingness to work with authorities for dust control efforts. However, they have yet to provide specific traffic estimates related to the project.
The fate of the Copper World mine now hinges on the appeal’s outcome, with both sides preparing for the next stage in this ongoing debate.
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