Critical Materials and Sustainability Transition

This book examines the essential role of critical minerals in the energy transition, addressing sustainability challenges and governance while providing insights from various fields to support future supply strategies.

Critical Materials and Sustainability Transition explores the essential role of critical minerals in the ongoing shift towards sustainable energy systems over the next three decades. The book examines the intersection of mineral requirements with budget considerations, employing a multi-faceted approach that draws on insights from industrial ecology, environmental engineering, and the sustainable management of natural resources.

Critical minerals, such as neodymium and lithium, are integral to various clean energy technologies, including wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles. Their unique properties facilitate efficient energy generation, storage, and transmission, making them indispensable in the transition away from fossil fuels. As the demand for these technologies grows, ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of critical minerals becomes increasingly crucial for supporting global energy initiatives.

The authors address several key questions related to the governance of critical minerals within the sustainability transition. They investigate the role of these materials in transforming energy systems, identify bottlenecks in achieving a sustainable supply, and explore how mineral criticality is assessed. Furthermore, the book discusses strategies for balancing the use of primary and secondary raw materials and examines how the known critical material budget aligns with climate pledges. By providing a comprehensive understanding of critical mineral requirements, the book aims to help societies develop effective and sustainable supply strategies for the future.