Energy Fuels sets high standards, to remove 10,000 tons of uranium-bearing cleanup materials from abandoned mines at no cost.

In a historic collaboration toward reconciliation and environmental stewardship, Energy Fuels Inc. and the Navajo Nation have signed an agreement to safely transport uranium ore and tackle the legacy of abandoned uranium mines that have marred tribal lands for decades.

"The Navajo Nation has suffered longstanding impacts from uranium mining conducted during the Cold War era, resulting in numerous abandoned mine and mill sites on their lands. This has understandably caused mistrust toward the U.S. government and energy companies," said Energy Fuels President and CEO Mark Chalmers. "I am personally honored that the Navajo Nation was willing to work with us in good faith to address their concerns and ensure that uranium ore transportation through the Navajo Nation will be done safely and respectfully."

Based in Denver, Colorado, Energy Fuels is one of the largest domestic uranium producers contributing to U.S. energy independence. Their initiatives align with the Biden administration's previous bans on Russian uranium imports and President Trump's recent executive orders, including Unleashing American Energy and the presidential declaration of a National Energy Emergency.

"We appreciate the sincere approach the Energy Fuels' negotiation team took with the Navajo Nation. They demonstrated a genuine understanding for the Navajo Nation's and the Navajo People's trauma regarding uranium and engaged as a partner in good faith to build a trusting relationship," said Heather Clah, Arizona's acting attorney general. "We look forward to Energy Fuels fulfilling their commitments to the Nation."

Enhanced safety and cultural protections

Energy Fuels' operating mines and processing facilities are fully permitted and continuously monitored by state and federal regulators. Between 2007 and 2024, the miner and its predecessor have safely transported several hundred thousand tons of uranium ore and other materials across Navajo Nation lands via highways and interstates-without incident.

Measures outlined in the agreement are intended to provide further layers of protection over and above the existing U.S. Department of Transportation requirements, including:

• Limiting transportation to specified routes and hours of the day.

• Prohibitions on transport during cultural events.

• Emergency response protocols and reporting.

• Dust-prevention systems, additional inspections, and insurance requirements.

• Additional driver qualification and training requirements.

• Transport licensing through the Navajo Nation and provisions for blessings and escorts.

"We have a settlement agreement that will allow the Navajo Nation to monitor and inspect the haul trucks and that provides financial compensation for the expenses to improve safety and protect the environment," said Stephen Etsitty, executive director of the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency. "The Navajo Nation appreciates the support from Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs who facilitated the pause in transport activities which helped the Navajo Nation and Energy Fuels conduct the negotiations."

Finding common ground

As part of the agreement, Energy Fuels will transport 10,000 tons of uranium-bearing cleanup materials from abandoned mines at no cost to the Navajo Nation while also committing to ongoing support for transportation safety, education, environmental protection, and local economic development.

This agreement aims to rebuild trust with the Navajo Nation, addressing concerns over uranium mining and transportation impacts from the past as well as for future generations.

"Today marks an important step forward for our communities and shows what is possible through collaboration, partnership, and a shared commitment to public safety," said Gov. Hobbs. "I want to thank President [Buu Van] Nygren, Navajo Nation leadership, and Energy Fuels for their commitment to finding common ground. This sets an example of collaboration and progress that we can all learn from. This agreement isn't just about resolving a conflict; it's a commitment to protecting future generations, respecting Tribal sovereignty and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. I'm committed to continue working on real solutions that prioritize the safety of all Arizonans."

Broader impact and goals

The agreement supports the Navajo Nation's monitoring and safety efforts while aligning with U.S. energy independence and clean energy priorities. Nation leaders and Gov. Hobbs emphasized the importance of a constructive relationship in achieving safety and respecting tribal sovereignty.

"We are proud to be a part of a historic agreement with the Navajo Nation, and we are committed to fulfilling our promises to them," added Chalmers. "We hope this agreement marks the beginning of a constructive relationship that restores trust with our neighbors, while also paving the way for future collaborations on cleanups and other areas of shared interest."

As a producer of natural uranium concentrates (U3O8), Energy Fuels plays a critical role in supplying fuel for clean, baseload nuclear energy. The mining and milling of uranium are the first steps in the nuclear fuel cycle, ultimately contributing to the national electric grid.

With nuclear power supplying approximately 18% of all electricity in the U.S. – including 46% of the nation's carbon-free electricity, according to the Nuclear Energy Institute – Energy Fuels remains a key contributor to the country's clean energy future.

As part of these ongoing efforts, ore transport from the company's Pinyon Plain Mine in northern Arizona to the White Mesa Mill in southern Utah is set to resume in February, further supporting domestic uranium production for reliable, low-carbon energy.