“Copper is a key part of this first challenge. Understanding the processes that enable living organisms to manage copper as a critical resource is what we are going to explore.”

From there, the plan is to find ways to undertake remediation at sites with a history of copper mining, cleaning up wastes in such a way that ensures these sites can continue to supply this critical resource.

Interestingly the writer didn’t include a choice quote from Byrt in the video that really underlines a miner like Rio Tinto’s immediate interest in this research. (paraphrased)

…these tailings ponds might have $2 million in value, but $4 million worth of headaches… …so the challenge is to innovate to achieve the value gain, while simultaneously clean up that toxic pond.