LONGVIEW, Texas — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above aired June 13, 2024.
A biomining company from New Zealand is anticipating a prospective site for a biorefinery in East Texas.
The Longview Economic Development Corporation announced that Mint Innovation has agreed to a contract with the city to confirm a site on East Loop 281 following a vote from the LEDCO on Thursday.
"There is always room for improvement in our production, distribution and disposal of goods and materials so we couldn’t be more elated to welcome Mint Innovation and their circular supply technology to Longview," LEDCO CEO and President Wayne Mansfield said.
The project is slated to invest over $15 million into the facility and create 28 jobs within three years. Mint Innovation uses natural biomass to extract metals like gold and copper from waste.
Mint Innovation said their technology would ensure Longview and the surrounding region would see positive impacts in terms of reduced e-waste to landfills and access to precious metals.
“Since our founding in 2016, we’ve been looking at opportunities abroad and are excited to be looking at bringing our technology to Longview, Texas," Will Barker, CEO and co-founder of Mint Innovation, said. "We’re proud to have the support of LEDCO to help create a more sustainable future for the Longview community by reducing e-waste and reintroducing critical metals into the local economy."