A United Nations report warns that growing global demand for minerals for clean energy and digital technology is causing local problems in poorer regions. The report lists minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite and rare earth elements and says they are essential for electric cars, batteries, solar panels, wind turbines and data centres.
The report finds that environmental damage, water loss and health harms fall mainly on poorer mining areas in Africa and South America, while richer countries get most benefits. Demand for these critical minerals tripled between 2010 and 2023 and could grow further in the coming years.
The authors ask for reforms: change supply chains, invest in recycling and research, enforce environmental rules and protect water and health in affected regions.
Difficult words
- mineral — a natural substance taken from the earthminerals
- demand — how much people or companies want something
- recycling — making old materials into new useful materials
- supply chain — all steps from production to final deliverysupply chains
- environmental — connected with nature and how we protect it
- rare earth element — a group of metals used in electronicsrare earth elements
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think recycling could help reduce local problems? Why or why not?
- What rules could protect water and health in mining areas?
- Have you heard about mining near your region? Describe briefly.
Related articles
Middle East tensions push up US fuel and food costs
Rising tensions in the Middle East have raised global oil prices and are already increasing costs in the United States. Economists say higher energy prices affect gasoline, airfares, supply chains and food, and that efficiency can help.
Which childhood food allergies are outgrown?
Many children outgrow milk and egg allergies, while peanut, tree nut, sesame and shellfish allergies often persist. Factors such as IgE levels, allergy severity and genetics affect whether a child becomes tolerant and which treatments help.
Antibody and EGFR–STAT1 pathway point to new fibrosis treatments
Researchers at Yale found a human antibody that blocks epiregulin and lowers fibrosis markers. They also show EGFR activates STAT1 in fibroblasts, suggesting two treatment paths: block epiregulin or target the EGFR–STAT1 pathway.
