‘Clean energy is just one driver of mining’: Cleodie Rickard on critical minerals

Mongabay
Mongabay
2M ago
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A Global Justice Now report finds many minerals labeled 'critical' by the U.K. are not essential for green energy, but serve other industries. This raises concerns about mining practices and environmental impacts.
‘Clean energy is just one driver of mining’: Cleodie Rickard on critical minerals
A What happened
The Global Justice Now report highlights that almost one-fifth of minerals classified as 'critical' by the U.K. are not vital for the green energy transition. Instead, these minerals are often used in sectors such as aerospace and military. Cleodie Rickard, the report's author, argues that the term 'critical minerals' can mislead policymakers and the public, as it often reflects geopolitical interests rather than actual needs for renewable energy. The report suggests that the U.K. can achieve its renewable energy targets without ramping up mining activities, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced understanding of which minerals are truly essential for the transition. This raises important questions about the environmental and social implications of mining practices, particularly for Indigenous communities affected by these projects.

Key insights

  • 1

    Misleading definitions: The term 'critical minerals' often reflects geopolitical interests rather than actual energy needs.

  • 2

    Environmental concerns: Mining for critical minerals can lead to habitat destruction and human rights abuses.

  • 3

    Alternative pathways: The U.K. can meet renewable energy demands without increasing mineral mining.

Takeaways

The findings challenge the prevailing narrative that increased mining is necessary for the green energy transition, highlighting the need for careful consideration of which minerals are truly critical and their intended uses.

Topics

Business & Markets Economy Climate & Environment Climate Change Sustainability

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