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.
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