Building a Resilient U.S. Supply Chain for Critical Materials & Mining Infrastructure

Bipartisan efforts continue to bolster domestic mineral production through legislative actions, such as the proposed Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025 and revisions to the Energy Act of 2020. The National Mining Association (NMA) supports these measures, emphasizing the need for U.S. production over reliance on foreign sources.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) 2025 Mineral Commodity Summaries, the U.S. remains import-reliant for many critical minerals, with China controlling production for over two-thirds of these resources. NMA President & CEO Rich Nolan states, “We could be producing most of these minerals here at home—under world-leading environmental, labor and safety standards”.

Projects like Perpetua Resources’ Idaho gold project could supply up to 35% of the U.S. annual demand for antimony, demonstrating the potential for revitalized domestic mining.

Technological advancements are driving sustainable mining operations:

• South32 Hermosa Project and the Battery Materials Development Grant are funding domestic manganese production for EV battery materials.
• Argonne National Lab is developing methods to make more batteries with fewer materials, reducing reliance on foreign sources. Jeff Spangenberger from Argonne hopes to make “more efficient use of critical materials in domestic battery supply chains so that the U.S. can rely less on other countries to achieve its clean energy goals”.
• The World Economic Forum’s Energy Transition Innovations report highlights groundbreaking technologies such as:
• The Helios Cycle: A closed-loop sodium system that eliminates CO₂
• Kofiln’s Exothermic Copper Processing: A method that significantly reduces SO₂

Beyond advancements in mineral extraction, innovations in soil stabilization are enhancing efficiency and safety in the mining industry. The GEOWEB geocells provide three-dimensional confinement and strengthening of infill, delivering:

• increased speed of operation,
• lower maintenance,
• safer installation, and
• a lower total cost of ownership.

Developed by Presto Geosystems, the original inventors of geocell technology, the GEOWEB geocells have been made in the USA for over 45 years. Their proven applications in the mining sector include:

• Haul Roads & Site Access Roads – Providing stability over soft ground, both above and below grade.
• Stormwater Containment & Channel Armoring – Controlling and containing runoff while protecting environmental barriers.
• Geomembrane Protection – Reinforcing basins, tailings storage, and heap leach pads.
• Mine Slope & Site Reclamation – Stabilization slopes for long-term restoration.

• North Antelope Rochelle Mine (WY): The world’s largest coal mine by reserves relies on GEOWEB geocell-reinforced roads to withstand the demands of 400-ton payload ultra-class haul trucks. View project photos and case study >>
• Western U.S. Evaporation Pond Access: Stabilized site access for operations over challenging terrain. View project photos and case study >>
• Oxbow’s Elk Creek Mind (CO): Underground haul road stabilization using the GEOWEB geocells. View project photos and case study >>
• Idaho Mine & Mill Site: Tailings stabilization and site reclamation for long-term environmental protection. View project photos and case study >>
• Cyprus Miami Mine (AZ): Slope reclamation using GEOWEB geocells to secure disturbed land. View project photos and case study >>

As a leader in geocell technology, Presto Geosystems integrates over 40 years of accredited research and testing to ensure structural integrity and cost-effective solutions. Our in-house engineering team applies research findings to develop practical, real-world applications for the mining industry.

Are you looking for a reliable, long-term stabilization solution for your mining operation? Our Free Project Evaluation service offers expert recommendations tailored to your specific needs.