Responsible Job Creation
Minnesota has long been a world leader in its strict regulatory and environmental review processes for the development of natural resources. All mining projects and energy transportation projects must meet or exceed both state and federal regulations as required by law in order to become operational. Multiple state and federal agencies are involved from the beginning of each project, ensuring third parties and sound science are used for fair and transparent review. The established process works, and projects should be allowed to follow a predictable review process.
Strategic metals resources were discovered in Minnesota more than 70 years ago but projects were not pursued due to the lack of economically viable and environmentally responsible technology. Today, new state-of-the-art mining technologies allow for the successful development of copper-nickel mining operations. Advanced technology will allow for mining, energy transportation, tourism and the environment to coexist, as has happened on Minnesota’s Iron Range for more than 130 years. Minnesota can have both – new jobs AND a clean environment.
Without the current pipeline projects in Minnesota, shippers would not be able to meet demands supplied by Midwest refineries for secure, reliable crude oil. Today, Enbridge supplies 79 percent of the oil refined in the state. Communities along the replacement pipeline corridors are experiencing approximately 6,500 jobs in construction, hospitality and other industries, as well as increased retail sales, food and lodging purchases and equipment and materials purchases during construction.
Enbridge has a strong track record of environmental stewardship and protecting the safety and well-being of employees and local communities. Through project-specific environmental protection plans and environmental management practices during construction, short-term disruption and long-term impacts will be minimized.
In the same light, PolyMet and Twin Metals Minnesota mining projects have followed federal regulations and implemented programs showcasing their commitment to environmental stewardship and protecting the Minnesota wilderness. Both companies will be held to the strict regulatory processes set in place by the federal government and will not be allowed to move forward unless approved by multiple agencies and organizations, including the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies that are economically viable and environmentally responsible, as well as strict regulatory review processes, Minnesota can have new jobs and a clean environment.
Watch our video below, featuring Minnesotans explaining why they support safe energy transportation in Minnesota.