The USA is the world’s leading mining nation, producing a wide variety of core commodities and minerals. It is a significant gold, copper, silver ,lead, zinc, molybdenum and coal producer. It produces nearly all major metals, except manganese and titanium.
Most of the USA’s major mines have experienced a drop in production as a result of the global commodity price drops and most companies cut back their exploration programs to focus on areas proximal to current mining operations.
The USA’s environmental agencies have been placing increasing pressure on mining and exploration companies. Mining companies have been blamed for releasing excessive amounts of pollutants into the air and water which has caused considerable public response. As a result, future exploration and development projects in the USA are required to address a list of environmental issues prior to each stage of the development process. The additional financial burden placed on companies has resulted in the curtailment of several potential mining projects.
