Everyone knows that environmentalists support the expansion of renewable energy, but is their opposition to mining hurting their own cause? Well according to a new report by the National Center for Public Policy Research, the answer appears to be “yes,” especially when it comes to environmentalist opposition to copper mining.  According to the report, copper is a vital component in the construction of wind turbines, renewable transmission lines, and hybrid cars. But environmentalists have often challenged mining operations that extract copper, such as in Alaska where the Pebble partnership has faced lawsuits, permit challenges and legislative initiatives all designed to halt its work. Talk about under-“mining” one’s own efforts!