The mining, quarrying and oil & gas extraction industries are the backbone for businesses around the globe. The U.S. utilizes oil, natural gas and coal to produce myriad products. Fossil fuel products and metal ores are critical raw materials for many industries, including chemicals, plastics, electronics, electrical wiring and batteries. Non-metallic minerals remain a staple in construction. This industry is subject to strict environmental scrutiny and policy; shifts in regulations have considerable impact. Global demand continues to be the significant factor, with rising prices stimulating increased exploration and extraction as profits increase. Conversely, decreasing prices prompt contractions as projects face tighter margins.