Critical minerals are essential raw materials that societies need but which are at risk of shortage. Their importance varies by country. For example, phosphate rock is critical for the EU due to limited local supplies, while the US and China do not consider it critical. These minerals are vital for green technologies that address climate and environmental issues:
- Rechargeable batteries: Lithium and cobalt
- Electric vehicles: Lithium, cobalt, copper, nickel, graphite
- Wind and solar power: Copper and nickel
- Electrical grids: Copper
- Electric arc furnaces: Graphite
Will we run out of critical minerals?
Despite concerns about running out of critical minerals, current research suggests long-term supplies are sufficient. For instance, materials like iron and graphite are in ample supply, while lithium, copper, cobalt, and nickel face higher demand. Addressing short-term bottlenecks involves accelerating exploration and extraction, which is a slow process.
Environmental and human rights concerns
Mining for critical minerals often involves serious environmental and human rights issues. For example, cobalt and copper mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been linked to poor working conditions and environmental damage. Lithium mining in Chile has similarly harmed ecosystems and local communities.
Ethical extraction practices
To ensure ethical extraction, we need strict regulations and transparent supply chains. Companies should be proactive in addressing abuses and influence their suppliers to follow ethical practices. Advocacy groups, like Amnesty International and Friends of the Earth, call for laws and accountability to prevent exploitation.
Steel production and its green alternatives
Steel, while not a critical mineral, is crucial for green infrastructure but traditionally relies on coal. Alternatives like green hydrogen and electric arc furnaces powered by renewable energy offer a cleaner production method. The UK’s Climate Change Committee suggests steel production could eliminate coal by 2035. However, transitioning to greener steel must also consider job impacts, requiring investments in sustainable employment.
Managing critical mineral consumption
Increase Short- and Medium-Term Supply: To avoid supply bottlenecks, we must expand mining, enhance refining capacities, and shorten lead times for new projects. Countries are also diversifying their supply sources to reduce dependency on dominant players like China.
Manage demand:
- Substitution: Using alternative materials can reduce dependence on scarce minerals. For example, companies are replacing cobalt with other materials and using aluminum instead of copper.
- Reduced consumption: Green technologies, while beneficial, still have environmental costs. Emphasizing public transport and reducing overall consumption are important.
- Recycling: Recycling extends the lifecycle of minerals. For instance, electric vehicle batteries are being recycled to recover valuable materials.
By addressing these challenges and implementing solutions, we can support a green future while minimizing environmental and social impacts.