Resolution copper advances

In a major step for the future of domestic resource independence, the Resolution Copper project in Arizona has reached a long-anticipated milestone, unlocking access to one of the largest undeveloped copper deposits in the world.

A defining moment for U.S. critical mineral security

The project, led by Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto (55%) and BHP (45%), has officially completed a landmark land exchange with the United States Forest Service. This development follows a decisive ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals, clearing the way for project advancement after years of legal and regulatory processes.

Balancing Resource Development with Environmental and Cultural Protection

What makes this milestone particularly significant is the scale and structure of the land exchange itself.

Over 5,400 acres of environmentally and culturally sensitive land, including habitats for protected species, riparian ecosystems, and areas of importance to Native American Tribes, have now been formally conserved within national protection frameworks. In exchange, approximately 2,400 acres near the historic Magma copper mine have been transferred to enable the next phase of project development.

This outcome reflects more than a regulatory decision, it represents over a decade of consultation, negotiation, and alignment with local communities, tribal stakeholders, and civil society organizations.

From approval to action

With the land exchange complete, the project is moving into an execution phase. An initial investment of approximately $500 million over the next two years will support:

• advanced drilling and resource definition
• early-stage underground development
• modernization of project infrastructure
• funding initiatives for Native American Tribes and local communities
• creation of approx. 100 new jobs in the region

These activities will progress alongside continued engagement with stakeholders and ongoing permitting at the state level.

Why Resolution Copper matters

Copper sits at the core of the global energy transition, essential for electrification, renewable energy systems, and modern infrastructure. Yet securing stable, domestic supply remains a strategic challenge for many economies.

Resolution Copper has the potential to fundamentally change that landscape in the United States. Once operational, the project could supply up to 25% of U.S. copper demand for decades, while contributing an estimated $1 billion annually to Arizona’s economy.

CEO perspective

Katie Jackson, Chief Executive of Copper at Rio Tinto, stated: “Rio Tinto is building a stronger copper business with a pipeline of large, long-life resources that can help meet growing global demand for the materials needed for electrification, infrastructure and modern technologies.” She added: “Completing the land exchange is a significant milestone and another positive step forward for the Resolution Copper project, which has the potential to satisfy up to 25% of America’s copper demand for decades to come. It’s expected to add $1 billion a year to Arizona’s economy and create thousands of local jobs in a region where mining has played an important role for more than a century.” And further emphasized: “As demand for copper continues to grow, projects like Resolution can play an important role in strengthening domestic supply chains. We acknowledge the support of the U.S. Government and its growing recognition of the need for domestic sources of copper and other critical materials.”

The bigger picture

Resolution Copper is more than a mining project, it is a case study in how resource development, environmental stewardship, and geopolitical priorities intersect.

As global demand for critical minerals accelerates, projects of this scale, anchored in long-term supply, regulatory rigor, and stakeholder engagement, will define the resilience of future supply chains.