The role of minerals in decarbonization
Description: The transition to a decarbonized energy system depends on abundant and inexpensive minerals that are acquired with limited environmental degradation.
Rationale: The minerals supply chain poses geopolitical, markets and business, social and environmental, policy, engineering, and public health challenges that Northwestern University is uniquely poised to address.
Landscape: Northwestern is home to an NSF global center planning grant on sustainable mineral supply chains. A handful of universities globally have strong programs in sustainable minerals. The most prominent, the University of Queensland (Australia), is a partner in our global center.
Vision: Guide the global discussion around procuring sufficient minerals (lithium, copper) for use in energy transition technologies such as lithium-ion batteries, solar panels, wind turbines accounting for ethics, markets, and engineering and design solutions to enhance sustainability.