Copper ore discovered on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. [Photo/CCTV News]
China has newly discovered copper resources exceeding 20 million metric tons on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, marking a major breakthrough in mineral exploration, the China Geological Survey under the Ministry of Natural Resources announced on Monday.
According to a CCTV News report, four copper resource deposits with a capability of tens of millions of tons have been identified on the plateau. The total resource potential of the four deposits is estimated to reach 150 million metric tons, indicating that the plateau has the potential to become a world-class copper resource base.
Copper ore discovered on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. [Photo/CCTV News]
"As a really critical metal, copper is especially important in the development and utilization of green energy," said Tang Juxing, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.
"The exploration and increase in reserves of these copper mines play a very important role in the construction of important resource bases for our country, ensuring the security of our country's copper industry chain and supply chain," Tang said.
Looking ahead, the China Geological Survey under the Ministry of Natural Resources plans to intensify fundamental geological surveys of mineral resources.
According to the report, Duobaoshan Copper Mine in northeastern Heilongjiang province has also added 3.65 million tons of copper resources, which will significantly enhance China's copper resource security capabilities.
