More than £4 million is being allocated to expedite the mining of “critical” minerals in Devon and Cornwall. The University of Exeter will receive £4.5 million to enhance the extraction of lithium, tin, and tungsten in these regions, as announced by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
“Lithium, tin and tungsten are vital for the expanding green economy, particularly in digital technologies and advanced manufacturing,” UKRI stated, highlighting the importance of these minerals. This funding is part of a broader £25 million investment by UKRI to establish five new green industry centers across the UK.
According to UKRI, the mining initiatives could generate around 3,000 jobs in Devon and Cornwall. The International Energy Agency projects that lithium demand could increase up to 40 times by 2040 compared to current production levels.
Frances Wall, the lead investigator for the Exeter center, described the initiative as a “wonderful opportunity” to support local businesses involved in the critical minerals sector. The new center will collaborate with various stakeholders, including Cornwall Resources Limited, Petrolab, Geolorn, and local government entities.