Core Viewpoint - Perpetua Resources Corp. has received final federal approval to commence construction at its Stibnite project in Idaho, which will provide the only domestic supply of antimony in the United States along with significant gold production [1][2]. Project Approval and Construction Timeline - The US Forest Service issued a conditional Notice to Proceed, confirming that Perpetua has met all requirements from the January 2025 Record of Decision, with construction expected to start by October after finalizing financial assurance bonds [2]. - Shares of Perpetua rose 1% to $17.59, giving the company a market capitalization of approximately C$1.89 billion [3]. Strategic Importance of the Stibnite Project - The Stibnite project is projected to begin commercial production by 2028, with a mine life of 15 years, supplying over 100 million pounds of antimony, which meets over 35% of US annual demand [4]. - Antimony is crucial for defense applications and renewable technologies, and the US currently relies on imports, primarily from China [4]. Financial Backing and Political Support - The US Export-Import Bank has shown support for the project with a letter of interest for up to $1.8 billion in financing, which is still under review [6]. - The project has garnered backing from billionaire investor John Paulson and has attracted political attention, especially following China's export restrictions on antimony to the US [6]. Environmental Considerations - Perpetua emphasizes a dual focus on mineral production and environmental restoration, having redesigned the final mine plan to reduce the project footprint by 13% and improve local ecosystems [7]. - However, the project faces opposition from Idaho's Nez Perce tribe due to concerns over potential impacts on local salmon populations [7]. Resource Estimates - The Stibnite project contains 104.6 million proven and probable tonnes, grading 1.43 grams of gold per tonne and 0.064% antimony, equating to approximately 4.8 million ounces of gold and 148 million pounds of antimony [8].