Kemeny Discusses Benefits, Risks of Copper Slowdown

A global slowdown in the production of copper may be a boon to the Arizona economy.

In a Feb. 14 interview with KJZZ, John Kemeny, department head and professor of mining and geological engineering at the University of Arizona, discussed how recent developments in countries including Brazil are impacting copper prices and boosting demand.

Greater demand and higher prices are beneficial for Arizona's mining industry, one of the leading producers of copper in the United States, Kemeny said. But he cautions that it likely means prices for certain consumer goods also will rise.