The term 'critical minerals' gained prominence as the transition from carbon-intensive energy sources accelerated, highlighting their necessity for low-carbon technologies. During COP 28, the global stocktake stressed the urgency of cutting emissions by 43% by 2030 (from 2019 levels) to limit warming to 1.5°C, while acknowledging that Parties are falling short of their Paris Agreement commitments. In response, it calls for tripling global renewable energy capacity and doubling efficiency improvements by 2030, alongside phasing down unabated coal power, eliminating inefficient fossil fuel subsidies, and ensuring a just, equitable transition—led by developed nations.

Fossil fuels have dominated final energy consumption since 1980, yet their share has declined from 74% to 66% (1980–2022), reflecting a gradual shift in the global energy mix.

With urbanisation surging, the rise of mega-cities is driving infrastructure expansion and energy demand, further amplifying the need for critical minerals in construction, electrification, and clean technologies. Meeting this demand requires not only technological progress but also robust policies for resilient supply chains.

National policies are pivotal in shaping critical mineral supply, influencing energy security and economic resilience. SFA (Oxford) delivers authoritative insights on evolving legislation, ensuring stakeholders stay ahead of policy shifts.

Critical minerals underpin innovation across industries, from high-tech manufacturing to renewable energy. These materials drive progress in aerospace, defence, transport, and emerging fields like AI, robotics, and hydrogen, reinforcing their strategic significance in the global economy.

Discover more with SFA about critical minerals’ role in key industries, policy developments, and supply chain dynamics.