Metals of a Changing World: Better Understanding the Metals Life-Cycles through a Holistic Approach

Abstract

The increasing need for metals announced for the next years as part of the energy transition effort cannot be counterbalanced by the recycled metals only. Understanding the natural, anthropic and environmental life cycles of metals must become a prerequisite to further extraction-to-manufacturing development projects, as part of a global reflection and effort for developing a circular economy, increasing low carbon energy production and protecting the biosphere.The full understanding of the future evolutions of both needs and resources, and their impact on the planet and life, needs interdisciplinary research. Besides, developing an excellent analysis of environmental, social, and governance factors related to mineral resource production will help make the right decisions at all levels.