News

Duluth News Tribune
December 20, 2009

I am writing to clarify comments attributed to me in the Dec. 6 story, “PolyMet mine splits Iron Range.”

I was quoted using the phrase “slave labor” in reference to current global copper production. This comment was misleading. I do apologize for making it and wish it had not been included. However, the reality, and the point I was attempting to make, is that copper is currently mined in places with histories of atrocious working conditions. Places like Mexico and Zambia. Although not “slave labor,” standards are clearly below what they are here.

I consider myself an environmentalist, and ultimately that is why I am supporting the PolyMet project. Ten years ago, when I was dropping off campers along the Echo Trail, I would never have thought I would be supporting a copper mine. However, these minerals are being used; I use them. By reading this you have participated in their use.

Perhaps the best-case scenario would be to stop consuming everything, period. That seems a bit impossible because we would all start getting a bit hungry. Then someone would start a tractor and we would be using resources again.

We could conserve, and I would encourage everyone to do so, but that would not eliminate the need for resources for food, heat and electricity.

The best we can hope for is for the resources we use to be produced in the most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly way possible.

That is what PolyMet’s proposal is and why I am in favor of it.

I am glad people are concerned about this project. I do hope these people investigate their concerns fully. We do need to be educated and not incendiary on a project this important.

I do regret if any quotes attributed to me in the article served the latter.

Justin Mattson

Aurora