Questions and Answers

  

Why does Asarco want to re-open?

  

Copper is essential in our everyday lives. It is used in construction, healthcare, telecommunications, and in your home. Copper is at an all-time high and the
impact to El Paso's economy could be strong. Consider these facts:

• Asarco's El Paso Plant may produce 150,000 tons of copper.

• 150,000 tons of copper equals 300 million pounds.

• Copper's current price is $2.70 per pound.

• That's $810 million in revenue.

• Opening the El Paso Plant could increase Asarco's production by 60%.

What is the economic impact to El Paso?

• 300 well-paying jobs plus benefits.

• Asarco could become one of El Paso County's top taxpayers again.

• Millions of dollars to El Paso's economy.

• Active role in the city of El Paso by supporting organizations that are the life blood of our community.

Is it safe?

• The copper smelter is like-new (When the copper smelter was shutdown in 1999, the equipment was only 5 years old. Since then, the equipment has been well-maintained to ensure its performance is stellar. In addition, $20-50 million will be invested upon re-opening to replace bags, hoses, and other important emission controls.)

• Scientific study after study - including real air monitoring data when Asarco was operating at full production in the late nineties and current air dispersion modeling demonstrates that Asarco WILL NOT cause or contribute to a condition of air pollution.

• Numerous scientific health studies show that operating Asarco will not cause a public health threat.