“Rio Tinto Energy America is a leader within the U.S. coal industry in terms of safety and operating performance. However, it is not positioned to take advantage of the rapidly growing Asian market, particularly China, which Rio Tinto is focusing on,” said Colin Marshall, president and CEO, RTEA. “Rio Tinto recognizes that coal will continue to play a vital role in meeting U.S. energy needs both now and in the future. One of the reasons for exploring the sale of RTEA is that due to the current positive outlook for western coal in the U.S., it is a valuable business. The sale review process will take some months. During that time, RTEA will be focused on running the mines safely and efficiently, as always.” RTEA operates five coal mines in Colorado, Montana and Wyoming.