In the heart of Southern Arizona, a new chapter in mining is being written, one that promises to reshape the local economy and challenge traditional mining practices. South32, an Australian mining giant, has just broken ground on Centro, a state-of-the-art remote operations center in Nogales. This isn’t just another mining project; it’s a bold statement about the future of the industry, and it’s happening right here in the United States.
Gov. Katie Hobbs, standing alongside local leaders and business representatives, hailed the project as a beacon of opportunity. “It’s going to create opportunities for Arizonans to live the Arizona promise,” she declared. The Hermosa mining project, which Centro will support, is set to deliver essential minerals like zinc and manganese, crucial components in the batteries powering the electric vehicle revolution.
But what sets this project apart is its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Centro, to be completed by 2027, will house nearly 1,000 workers who will remotely control much of the mining equipment at Hermosa. This isn’t about displacing jobs; it’s about creating them. South32 has pledged to hire 80 percent of the project’s workforce from Santa Cruz County, with starting salaries exceeding $90,000 per year. This is a game-changer for a region that has long grappled with economic disparities.
Pat Risner, President of the Hermosa Project, underscored the company’s commitment to sustainability. “We have a goal of being net zero greenhouse gas emissions,” he stated. This isn’t just lip service; South32 plans to use all battery-electric fleets underground, a significant departure from the diesel-powered equipment typically used in mining.
However, the path to progress is never smooth. Critics, including the Calabasas Alliance, have raised concerns about environmental impacts, particularly on air quality and groundwater. The alliance, in partnership with the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, has deployed air quality sensors around Patagonia to monitor the situation. While these sensors offer some reassurance, the group remains vigilant, a reminder that the mining industry must continually strive to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.
The Hermosa project, part of the federal government’s FAST-41 permitting process, is poised to become a critical minerals district. It could create up to 900 good-paying jobs and support investment in surrounding communities for decades. This is more than just a mining project; it’s an investment in the future of Southern Arizona.
As construction of Centro begins, so does a new era in mining. An era where technology and sustainability go hand in hand, where economic opportunities are created without compromising the environment, and where local communities are at the heart of the operation. The groundbreaking at Nogales is more than a milestone; it’s a testament to what the future of mining can look like. It’s a future that’s innovative, sustainable, and inclusive. And it’s happening right here, right now. The question is, will other mining companies follow suit? Will they embrace this new paradigm, or will they cling to the old ways? The future of the mining industry hangs in the balance, and the stakes have never been higher.