In your opinion, why is our industry a fundamental one?

"I strongly believe that the metals and mining industry boosts the economy, especially in regions and states where mining activity is concentrated. Minerals and metals make nearly everything we have; without this type of mining, many of the products we know and love would not exist."

"I believe the biggest reason mining is necessary is that minerals and metals can rarely be substituted for anything. They are vital to our everyday lives. If mining stopped, we would not have other resources for the most important things we use daily."