WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Mining Association (NMA) today recognized National Miners Day, a day established to acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices of our nation’s miners.

“What many Americans don’t realize is that the mining industry drives our supply chain, bringing affordable energy and essential materials to virtually every home and industry in the U.S.,” said Hal Quinn, NMA president and CEO. “From infrastructure to manufacturing, advanced technologies and our national defense system, every aspect of our lives is supported by mining and made possible by American miners. Today we thank this vital yet too often unrecognized group for their extraordinary contributions.”

When asked about the importance of mining to their lives, just half of Americans identified mining as important to their daily lives, according to polling conducted by Morning Consult for NMA on December 1-2, 2016. But when reminded of all the industries and technologies that rely on the essential materials and reliable, affordable electricity made available by mining, that number rises to nearly 80 percent – a 30 percent jump. Seventy three percent of voters went on to say that they are supportive of policies that encourage domestic mining and the use of America’s natural resources.

The national poll was conducted with 1,401 registered voters, and includes a margin of error of +/- 3 percent.

Also timed with National Miners Day, and to help raise awareness of the importance of the work undertaken by miners across America, NMA released a new video featuring leaders from across the industry discussing their thoughts on mining’s greatest contributions to the American experience. The video can be accessed here.

See the press release here.