As the world transitions to sustainable development and the achievement of net-zero emissions by 2050, the demand for specific minerals and metals, such as lithium, nickel, and copper, is surging. These minerals are crucial for the development of batteries, solar panels, and electric vehicles, and therefore are central to clean energy technologies and to enabling the energy transition.

However, the intensifying demand for energy transition minerals poses significant challenges for the environment and the local communities where mining occurs. Without transformative changes to mining practices, this demand could amplify the negative consequences historically associated with extractive industries.