Climate Change, Critical Metals, and the Energy Transition: Understanding a Key Set of Relationships

Lecture by Simon Jowitt, Arthur Brant Chair in Exploration Geology and Director of the Ralph J. Roberts Center for Research in Economic Geology, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, University of Reno.

Humanity mines more metals and minerals than at any other point in history, and mining is vital to modern standards of living as well as providing the raw materials required by a range of industries. However, the demand for mined metals and minerals continues to increase and is accelerating as a result of the energy transition to a carbon neutral future. The next few decades will therefore likely require more mining than already current record levels of production, especially of a range of metals and minerals that are considered critical.

This presentation will provide an overview of the importance of mining to modern society, explain what we mean by critical metals and minerals, outline the metal and mineral supply challenges presented by climate change mitigation, and discuss the challenges associated with supplying the metals and minerals that modern society and climate change mitigation require.

All are invited to attend this lecture on April 11, 2024 at 7:30 PM in Newton 204. It is free and open to the public.