Reimagining Critical Mineral Supply Chains: Local Solutions for Global Decarbonization

The global metals and mining industry accounts for approximately eight percent of the world’s carbon footprint. However, a robust critical mineral supply chain is essential for the renewable energy transition and the decarbonization of various industries through electrification. While a variety of strategies to reduce the carbon footprint of the mining industry are being explored and implemented, the recovery and recirculation of critical minerals through our economy can simultaneously reduce the demand for virgin critical materials and the associated emissions.

Leading companies are implementing strategies to tap into a distributed “urban mine” of critical minerals from used electronics. In collaboration with a variety of supply chain partners, they are establishing local and regional closed-loop systems that optimize economies of scale and create efficient critical mineral reverse logistics across the United States. What are the enabling factors needed to establish such systems? What policy instruments and community engagement strategies can help build strong critical mineral supply chains in historically marginalized communities?

Join us as we discuss how localized critical mineral supply chains can reduce carbon emissions, lessen dependence on distant resources, and promote environmental justice.