Emirates Global Aluminium's (EGA) planned aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma, the first in the US in 45 years, is drawing both praise and alarm. Governor Kevin Stitt hailed the project as a win for Oklahoma's business environment.

However, the Indigenous Environmental Network (IEN) raised environmental and health concerns. Jordan Harmon, the policy analyst at the IEN, warned of possible heavy metal release into waterways and increased air pollution, noting existing pollution in the Arkansas River. The National Library of Medicine also links aluminum smelting to higher cancer risks for workers.

EGA affirmed its commitment to operating responsibly with efficient technology and emission controls. The State Department of Commerce backed EGA's claims, emphasizing close monitoring and water discharge control measures, adding the plant won't produce toxic red mud, also called bauxite residue. Still, IEN criticized the perceived lack of public and tribal consultation, urging residents to contact lawmakers with any concerns.