Reviewing the material and metal security of low-carbon energy transitions

Abstract

The global transition to a low-carbon economy will involve changes in material markets and supply chains on a hitherto unknown scale and scope. With these changes come numerous challenges and opportunities related to supply chain security and sustainability. To help support decision-making as well as future research, this study employs a problem-oriented perspective while reviewing academic publications, technical reports, legal documents, and published industry data to highlight the increasingly interconnected nature of material needs and geopolitical change. The paper considers a broad set of issues including technologies, material supplies, investment strategies, communal concerns, innovations, modeling considerations, and policy trends to help contextualize policy decisions and regulatory responses. Policy options are outlined for each topical section, as well as areas for further research. Together, these recommendations serve to help guide the complex, interdisciplinary approach to materials required for a low-carbon transition.

Future greenhouse gas emissions from metal production: gaps and opportunities towards climate goals

“…1 The current society heavily relies on metals for a variety of purposes, which is predicted to accelerate in the future owing to the global population and economic growth a Research Institute of Science for Safety and Sustainability, National Institute of and increasing low-carbon technology adoption. [2][3][4][5][6][7] According to a report by the International Resource Panel, metal production accounts for approximately 10% of global GHG emissions. 8 Therefore, the associated GHG emissions and other environmental impacts of metal production are highly concerning in the pursuit of achieving a sustainable society.…”

Rare earth and financial markets: Dynamics of return and volatility connectedness around the COVID-19 outbreak

“…The ongoing US-China trade embargo represents additional stress on the renewable energy sector and REMs ( He, 2018 ; Lee et al, 2020 ; Rogers et al, 2019 ). Notably, the COVID-19 outbreak makes the subject more critical because companies are now actively looking to diversify their supply chains away from China.…”

Reduced Use of Fossil Fuels can Reduce Supply of Critical Resources

“…The geographical distribution of fossil resources differs from the distribution of renewable energy resources and from the minerals used to build renewable energy infrastructure (Månberger and Johansson 2019;Overland et al 2019). As a result, the transition to sustainable energy does not only affect the environment; it also has far-reaching implications for geopolitics and governance (Lee et al 2020).…”