by John Schneeberger, BCAG, Hamilton
The Sustainable Living Systems, Bitterroot Climate Action Group adamantly opposes US Critical Mineral’s proposed plan for mineral exploration near Sheep Creek. Our organization is an ardent supporter of transitioning our energy sector towards renewable energy. Presently, technology, such a s wind and solar, relies on rare earth minerals like the ones to be harvested at the proposed Sheep Creek Mine. While the urgent task of decarbonizing the economy currently depends on these rare earth minerals, it is increasingly clear that these minerals can be harvested from existing mine waste sites. We believe that it is good environmental policy to encourage the reclamation of these mines as we are at base an environmental organization that does not believe in sacrificing one environmental goal for another. Furthermore, renewable energy is still in its infancy and its reliance on exotic material is likely a temporary phase in its development, as evidenced by the recent factory that opened in China making batteries with sodium. We also encourage conservation of existing resources through personal restraint on excessive consumption, for the health of the natural environment, as well as individuals, the community, and future generations. Sacrificing the Bitterroot River, and the livelihoods and health of the people of this valley to a rare earth mine, is reckless and unnecessary.
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