Mining

Mines experts are advancing U.S. critical minerals policy discussions with data-driven insight, shaping energy, security and workforce innovation.

Innovative biochar research at Mines explores a new way to clean mine water of harmful metals with support from the Schmidt Family Foundation.

Edgar Mine is home to hands-on experiences few universities offer with student-built labs and a one-of-a-kind learning environment.

The 2025 State of Critical Minerals Report from the Payne Institute for Public Policy at Colorado School of Mines underscores opportunities to strengthen U.S. mineral security through smarter investment in refining, processing, byproduct recovery and recycling.

Student researchers in Mines' Mineral and Energy Economics Program are delving into topics from geopolitics and supply chain risks to artisanal mining and responsible sourcing related to the global critical minerals landscape.

Reza Hedayat, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Mines, sees mine tailings — the material left over from everyday mining operations — not as waste and a growing environmental concern but an opportunity.

With expertise in critical minerals mining, policy, economics and community engagement, researchers at Colorado School of Mines are helping chart a path to strengthened national resilience and resource independence.

The findings, published in the journal Science, show that improved recovery of critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium and rare earth elements currently being discarded as tailings of other mineral streams could meet the U.S. demand for energy, defense and technology applications.

As demand for critical minerals grows, Mines is driving innovation in sustainable mining through research, education and hands-on training.