🌱 Introduction
The global shift toward renewable energy and low-carbon technologies has sharply increased demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements. These materials are essential for electric vehicles, batteries, and renewable energy infrastructure — making them central to climate mitigation strategies.
⛏️ Climate Transition and Mineral Dependency
Clean energy systems require significantly more mineral input than fossil-fuel-based systems. As a result:
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Mining activity has expanded rapidly
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Supply chains have become strategically important
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Resource-rich regions have gained climate relevance
Many of these minerals are concentrated in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia.
🌍 Environmental and Social Dimensions
Climate-driven mining expansion raises concerns including:
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Environmental degradation
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Water scarcity
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Community displacement
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Long-term ecological damage
Sustainable mining practices are now recognized as essential to ensuring that climate solutions do not create new environmental problems.
🏭 Global Supply Chain Dynamics
Most value addition — refining, manufacturing, and technology development — still occurs in industrialized economies. This has prompted international discussions around:
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Local processing
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Responsible sourcing
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Equitable participation in clean energy value chains
🌱 Climate Policy Implications
International climate frameworks increasingly emphasize:
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Responsible mineral sourcing
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Environmental safeguards
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Supply chain transparency
These measures aim to align climate goals with sustainable development.
