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Demand for clean-energy minerals harms poor regions (Level A1) — a group of clay pots filled with water

Demand for clean-energy minerals harms poor regionsCEFR A1

30 Apr 2026

Adapted from Mohammed El-Said, SciDev CC BY 2.0

Photo by Mauro Lima, Unsplash

Level A1 – Beginner
2 min
88 words
  • World demand for minerals used in clean energy is rising.
  • Mining needs a lot of water every day.
  • This water use can harm local farms and animals.
  • People in poor regions can get sick from pollution.
  • Rich countries often gain most profits from mining.
  • Many mines are in poor countries far from cities.
  • Experts say this situation repeats old fossil fuel mistakes.
  • Communities lose crops, clean wells and daily water.
  • The report asks for reforms to protect water and health.
  • People want better rules, recycling and fair trade.

Difficult words

  • mineralA natural solid used for industry or energy
    minerals
  • miningThe work of taking minerals from the ground
  • pollutionHarmful material that makes land or water dirty
  • reformChanges in rules or laws to improve things
    reforms
  • recyclingTurning used materials into new products again
  • communityA group of people living in the same place
    Communities

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Is water important where you live?
  • Do you use products made from recycled materials?
  • Have you seen a mine near your home?

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