Articles tagged with "critical-minerals"
Driving Best Practice in Mining Waste Management - CleanTechnica
A recent study by Transport & Environment (T&E) and Earthworks provides a global benchmarking of mining waste legislation across six regions, highlighting significant weaknesses in current regulatory frameworks. As demand for critical minerals surges due to the energy transition and other technological needs, robust mining waste management is essential to protect people and the environment. The research compares national laws against the "Safety First: Guidelines for Responsible Mine Tailings Management" and finds that no region fully mandates the use of best available technologies or meets all safety requirements, especially regarding the closure of tailings facilities. Despite widespread regulatory gaps, some countries demonstrate leadership in mining waste governance. Brazil stands out with the strongest legislative framework, notably being the only country to fully ban upstream tailings dams and enforce strict monitoring and proximity limits to residential areas. The US state of Montana also has strong independent monitoring rules, while China imposes restrictions on tailings facility locations near communities. Most jurisdictions require some form of financial assurance for mining waste management. The report calls on governments
energymining-waste-managementenvironmental-protectioncritical-mineralsmining-legislationsustainable-miningtailings-managementA Techno-Economic Assessment of Seabed Mining: American Samoa and Global Implications - CleanTechnica
The article discusses a techno-economic assessment of seabed mining in the American Samoa region, commissioned by the National Ocean Protection Coalition (NOPC), a coalition of over 90 organizations advocating for marine protected areas in the U.S. The study, conducted by the author and metallurgical engineer Lyle Trytten, aims to evaluate whether seabed mining there is economically viable and technically feasible. This assessment responds to polarized debates where proponents cite seabed mining as critical for securing future supplies of nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, while opponents emphasize environmental risks, regulatory uncertainties, and the historical failures of offshore mining projects. NOPC sought a neutral, engineering-based analysis focusing on actual hardware, supply chains, and market realities rather than optimistic projections or marketing claims. The report highlights that polymetallic nodules, which accumulate over millions of years in deep ocean basins, vary significantly in composition across regions. The closest analogue to American Samoa’s nodules is the Cook Islands, which differ notably from the better
energymaterialsseabed-miningcritical-mineralsnickelcobaltcoppermetallurgical-engineeringAfrican Nations Promote Locally Produced Solar Panels - CleanTechnica
At COP30, African nations emphasized their determination to move beyond reliance on foreign aid and take control of their renewable energy futures. African leaders highlighted the continent’s vast mineral wealth—over 30% of the world’s critical minerals—and argued that Africa should become an industrial hub for clean energy technologies rather than merely an importer. Currently, China dominates Africa’s solar panel market, supplying about 60% of imports between June 2024 and June 2025, with Nigeria and South Africa as the largest importers. However, experts and officials advocate for investing in local design labs and manufacturing to retain economic value, create jobs, and reduce emissions, drawing parallels to China’s successful automobile industry growth through joint ventures and technology transfer. Several African countries rich in minerals like cobalt, lithium, and manganese—such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, and Gabon—are encouraged to move beyond raw material exports and develop local processing and manufacturing capabilities. While China’s dominance in solar manufacturing remains strong due to
energyrenewable-energysolar-panelsAfricaclean-energysolar-manufacturingcritical-mineralsNation-Building or Asset Stranding: What Canada’s Latest Megaprojects Tell Us - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica analyzes Canada’s latest Major Projects Office (MPO) investments, highlighting a tension between the country’s stated goals of building a low-carbon, electrified economy and the continued heavy investment in fossil fuel infrastructure. While the government promotes a nation-building agenda focused on clean electricity, critical minerals, northern electrification, reconciliation, and export capacity, the actual allocation of capital reveals a disproportionate emphasis on fossil fuel export projects. The largest investments are concentrated in the Ksi Lisims LNG terminal and the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission line, together representing over $30 billion, overshadowing smaller-scale clean energy and critical mineral projects. The article points out that although the government’s narrative aligns with climate and economic transition objectives, the project portfolio is heavily skewed toward fossil fuel infrastructure with limited domestic benefits. Significant public resources and policy adjustments, including tariff restructuring by BC Hydro, fast-tracked grid expansions, concessional financing, and Indigenous loan guarantees, are being directed to support LNG projects. This
energyclean-energycritical-mineralsinfrastructureelectrificationfossil-fuelstransmission-linesNew projects will build up Canada’s clean economy, but LNG exposure invites unnecessary risk - Clean Energy Canada
Rachel Doran, executive director of Clean Energy Canada, responded to the federal government’s announcement on national interest projects by highlighting a positive shift toward clean economy initiatives. Of the 11 projects designated, eight focus on clean economy sectors—five in critical minerals and three in clean energy and transmission—while only two involve fossil fuels. Doran emphasized that global energy employment growth is driven almost entirely by clean energy, with many countries adopting net-zero commitments, carbon pricing, and policies favoring electrification, such as domestic EV requirements and carbon border adjustments. However, Doran cautioned against the government’s support for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, citing the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) outlook that LNG supply is outpacing demand, which is expected to lead to falling prices and potential stranded assets by 2030. She warned that investing in LNG could burden Canadian taxpayers with subsidies for unprofitable projects, lost jobs, and unrealized revenues. Instead, Doran
clean-energyLNGcritical-mineralselectrificationenergy-policyclean-economynatural-gasBudget 2025 makes moves to build one Canadian clean economy, but more work is ahead to fully seize the opportunity: One Canadian Clean Economy Task Force - Clean Energy Canada
The 2025 Canadian federal budget has taken significant steps toward establishing Canada as a global leader in the clean energy economy, according to the One Canadian Clean Economy Task Force and affiliated organizations such as Clean Energy Canada and the Canadian Renewable Energy Association. Key budget measures include the continuation and expansion of investment tax credits (notably the Clean Electricity Tax Credit), strengthening Canada’s industrial pricing regime, initial efforts to broaden investment tools for the clean economy, commitments to reduce emissions in building construction, and direct support for critical minerals essential to clean technologies. These actions align with the Task Force’s North Star Action Plan, which outlines 30 government actions to streamline and boost Canada’s clean economy. Despite these advances, the Task Force emphasizes that further work is needed, particularly to enhance Indigenous participation and equity in the clean economy. While the budget includes some funding for Indigenous projects and expands the Indigenous Loan Guarantee program, more opportunities for Indigenous ownership and economic involvement are necessary to ensure inclusive growth. The Task Force also highlights the importance of
energyclean-energyrenewable-energyclean-economyenergy-transitioncritical-mineralsclean-technologiesBudget 2025 has the right signals on the importance of the clean economy but fails to connect its benefits to everyday Canadians - Clean Energy Canada
Clean Energy Canada’s executive director Rachel Doran responded to Canada’s Budget 2025 by acknowledging its positive signals toward supporting the clean economy and low-carbon industries as key drivers of the country’s economic future and international competitiveness. The budget emphasizes regulatory certainty, private capital mobilization, and incentives for clean technologies, including strengthened industrial carbon pricing and maintained Clean Electricity Regulations. Notably, the introduction of the Critical Minerals Sovereign Fund aims to secure supply chains vital for clean technologies and energy security, positioning Canada strategically in global trade. However, Doran criticizes the budget for failing to directly connect the clean economy’s benefits to everyday Canadians. She highlights the termination of programs like the Greener Homes Grant and Loan, uncertainty around the EV Availability Standard, and the lack of renewed federal EV rebates, which could reduce affordability for households facing fossil fuel price volatility. She calls for improved market conditions through competition and tariff adjustments to enhance EV accessibility. Additionally, the budget lacks ambitious nation-building efforts to expand clean electricity infrastructure,
energyclean-energyclean-economycarbon-pricingcritical-mineralsclean-technologyrenewable-energyUnlocking the true potential of Canada's clean economy - Clean Energy Canada
The article from Clean Energy Canada highlights that Canada is at a pivotal moment, facing geopolitical instability and a strained US relationship, prompting a reassessment of its economic, energy, and national security strategies. The federal and provincial governments are actively working to unify the Canadian market and diversify trade, especially towards the EU and Asia. Central to this effort is the One Canadian Clean Economy Task Force, which argues that Canada can protect its economy from current trade shocks while positioning itself to benefit long-term from the global energy transition. Clean economy projects not only meet the federal government’s One Canadian Economy Act criteria—supporting clean growth, autonomy, resilience, security, and economic benefits—but also offer significant opportunities in critical minerals and renewable energy, particularly benefiting Indigenous communities. The clean energy sector in Canada is projected to reach a GDP of $107 billion by 2030 and create 600,000 jobs, with provinces already investing heavily in wind, solar, and energy storage projects valued at over $31 billion. Indigenous nations are
energyclean-energyrenewable-energyenergy-transitioncritical-mineralsenergy-storageclean-economyCanada May Remove 100 Percent Tariff On Chinese Made Cars - CleanTechnica
Canada is reportedly considering removing its 100 percent tariff on electric vehicles manufactured in China, a tariff that was added in August 2024 on top of an existing 6.1 percent tariff. This additional tariff was initially imposed to support the U.S., which also levied a 100 percent tariff on Chinese cars to protect its domestic auto industry. Canadian Prime Minister Carney is actively seeking to establish strategic relationships with China, aiming to balance cooperation opportunities while protecting Canadian interests. He has engaged with Chinese leaders, including Premier Li Qiang, and plans further high-level meetings, such as at the upcoming G20 Summit. Carney’s broader diplomatic efforts include visits to Asian countries and discussions on critical minerals, energy, defense, and potential submarine contracts with South Korea. China has retaliated against Canada’s tariffs by imposing punitive tariffs on Canadian agricultural exports like canola, seafood, and pork. Despite these tensions, Canada is attempting to improve relations with Beijing, even as it navigates delicate trade negotiations with
energyelectric-vehiclestariffsinternational-tradeChina-Canada-relationscritical-mineralsautomotive-industryAustralia to get world’s most advanced 10,000-ton nuclear submarines
The United States is set to deliver the world’s most advanced 10,000-ton Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines to Australia under the AUKUS trilateral defense pact with the United Kingdom. This deal, reaffirmed during a meeting between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and former US President Donald Trump, aims to bolster Australia’s long-range deterrence capabilities and strengthen Western naval power in the Indo-Pacific amid escalating tensions with China. Australia is expected to receive at least three used submarines starting in the early 2030s, though concerns remain about whether the US Navy can supply these without affecting its own fleet readiness. To address this, the Pentagon is reviewing submarine production capacity to keep the AUKUS timeline on track. In addition to the submarine transfer, Australia will supply critical minerals to the US under a multi-billion-dollar agreement designed to reduce dependence on China for rare earth elements vital to defense and high-tech manufacturing. The US has praised Australia’s ongoing defense investments, including a $1 billion contribution
energynuclear-submarinesdefense-technologyAUKUS-pactcritical-mineralsrare-earth-elementsnaval-powerUS, Australia strike $8.5B rare earths deal to cut China reliance
The United States and Australia have signed a landmark $8.5 billion agreement to develop rare earth and critical mineral projects, aiming to reduce dependence on China and strengthen supply chains vital for defense, technology, and manufacturing. The deal includes an initial $1 billion investment over six months from both countries, with the White House later clarifying that over $3 billion will be invested in critical mineral projects in that period. Additionally, the U.S. Export-Import Bank will issue letters of interest totaling more than $2.2 billion, potentially unlocking up to $5 billion in further investments. Key projects involve rare earth processing in Australia, a trilateral venture with Japan, and a Pentagon-backed gallium refinery in Western Australia. This initiative comes amid escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, particularly after China imposed strict export controls on rare earths, which are essential for high-performance magnets used in defense systems, semiconductors, robotics, and electric vehicles. The U.S. aims to build a supply chain
rare-earthscritical-mineralssupply-chainUS-Australia-dealrare-earth-processingdefense-technologyelectric-vehiclesU.S. and Australia sign $3B critical minerals deal
The United States and Australia have signed a $3 billion agreement to jointly invest in critical minerals projects over the next six months, aiming to strengthen supply chains for essential materials. The total value of the project pipeline is estimated at $8.5 billion. A key component of the deal includes the U.S. Department of Defense funding a gallium refinery in Western Australia with a production capacity of 100 tons per year. This investment addresses U.S. reliance on gallium imports, which currently meet 100% of domestic consumption at about 21 tons annually. The move is partly a response to China's export restrictions on rare earth elements and other critical minerals used in electronics and electric motors. In addition to the minerals agreement, Australia has committed to purchasing $1.2 billion worth of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) from the U.S. defense startup Anduril. It remains unclear whether this purchase is a new contract or part of a previously announced $1.12 billion program for delivering Ghost Shark
critical-mineralsrare-earth-elementsgalliumenergy-materialsautonomous-underwater-vehiclesdefense-technologyelectric-motorsAmerican Battery Technology Company Publishes Milestone Pre-Feasibility Study Accelerating Commercialization of its Tonopah Flats Lithium Project, One of the Largest Lithium Resources in the United States - CleanTechnica
American Battery Technology Company (ABTC) has published a milestone Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) and S-K 1300 Technical Report for its Tonopah Flats Lithium Project (TFLP) near Tonopah, Nevada, highlighting the project's strong economic potential and strategic importance for the U.S. critical mineral lithium supply chain. The study projects a 30,000 tonnes per year lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LHM) production capacity over a 45-year mine life, with an after-tax net present value (NPV) at 8% of $2.57 billion, an internal rate of return (IRR) of 21.8%, and a payback period of 7.5 years. Key improvements include a 9.2% reduction in production costs to $4,307 per tonne LHM, an increased lithium grade entering the refinery (from ~800 ppm to ~2,100 ppm), and integrated onsite power generation with battery
energylithiumbattery-materialsenergy-storageminingcritical-mineralssustainabilityEurope Pledges $600 Billion for Clean Energy Projects in Africa
The European Union has pledged $600 billion through its Global Gateway investment plan to support clean energy projects in Africa, aiming to address the continent’s critical energy deficit where nearly 600 million people lack electricity access. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that this clean energy transition would generate jobs, promote stability and growth, and help meet global climate goals. The initiative could create up to 38 million green jobs in Africa by 2030. Global Gateway, launched in 2021, focuses on infrastructure development worldwide but prioritizes Africa due to its vast deposits of critical minerals essential for technology and green energy, such as cobalt, lithium, copper, and manganese. The EU’s effort is partly a strategic response to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which since 2013 has invested over $1.3 trillion globally in infrastructure, including significant energy investments in Africa. China’s involvement includes exporting large quantities of solar panels and securing influence through mining and infrastructure projects, positioning itself as a
energyclean-energyAfricaEuropean-UnionGlobal-Gatewaygreen-jobscritical-mineralsU.S. government takes stake in Canadian lithium miner and its Nevada mining project
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has secured a 5% equity stake in Canadian lithium miner Lithium Americas and a 5% stake in its Nevada mining joint venture with General Motors (GM) through a renegotiation of a federal loan. These stakes are acquired via no-cost warrants, serving as additional collateral to reduce taxpayer repayment risk. Lithium Americas is developing the Thacker Pass mine in Nevada, a project approved by President Trump in January 2021, which is expected to produce enough lithium to supply batteries for up to 800,000 electric vehicles annually in its first phase. GM holds a 38% stake in Lithium Americas, acquired last year for $625 million, granting it rights to lithium production sufficient for 1.6 million EVs over 20 years. This move aligns with the Trump administration’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic critical mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on foreign sources. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized that despite the U.S. having large lithium
energylithium-miningelectric-vehiclesbattery-materialsU.S.-Department-of-Energycritical-mineralsdomestic-supply-chainHow Bill Gates’s fellowship program is adapting to global uncertainty
Bill Gates’s climate tech organization, Breakthrough Energy, is adapting its fellowship program to address growing global uncertainty, including economic challenges and shifting policy priorities. The program, which supports startups led by budding entrepreneurs, has announced a new cohort of 45 fellows across 22 startups, marking its most globally diverse group yet—with half of the teams based outside the U.S., including locations in Asia, Canada, Germany, the U.K., and South Africa. This international emphasis is partly driven by the opening of a new fellowship hub in Singapore in partnership with Temasek and Enterprise Singapore, reflecting the recognition that climate change solutions must be globally sourced and locally tailored. The new cohort focuses on areas such as hydrogen, circularity (recycling materials), critical minerals, agriculture, and grid modernization, with particular attention to regional priorities like Asia’s interest in hydrogen and recycling due to its manufacturing footprint. The fellowship’s curriculum has also evolved to emphasize techno-economic analysis, encouraging startups to rigorously assess the economic viability of
energyclimate-techhydrogen-economycircular-economycritical-mineralsgrid-modernizationstartup-innovation10 million EVs could be powered by lithium hidden in US mine waste
A recent study led by Elizabeth Holley of the Colorado School of Mines reveals that the United States could significantly boost its supply of critical minerals by recovering valuable elements from existing mine waste, currently treated as byproducts. Analyzing 54 active mines across 70 elements, the research estimates that just one year’s worth of U.S. mine waste contains enough lithium to power 10 million electric vehicles and enough manganese for 99 million, far exceeding current domestic demand and imports. Recovering even 1 percent of these byproducts could substantially reduce U.S. reliance on imports, while a 4 percent recovery of lithium alone could eliminate the need for lithium imports entirely. The study highlights specific mines with high potential for various minerals, such as germanium in Alaska’s Red Dog mine and nickel in Montana’s Stillwater and East Boulder mines. The authors argue that the fastest way to increase domestic mineral production is by optimizing existing mining operations through adding recovery circuits for byproducts, which could quickly bring needed minerals to
energylithiumelectric-vehiclesminingcritical-mineralsbattery-materialssustainable-energySeaweed could unlock new sources of rare minerals for EVs: US study
US researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have developed a novel approach to extract rare earth minerals and critical metals from seaweed, potentially unlocking a sustainable domestic source for materials essential to electric vehicles (EVs), electronics, and construction. Seaweed species, particularly Ulva (sea lettuce), have been found to bioaccumulate rare earth elements and metals like nickel at concentrations vastly higher than those in seawater. By cultivating various seaweed species at their Sequim campus, the team identified which types concentrate specific minerals, with Ulva showing the best overall potential for critical mineral accumulation. The extraction process involves grinding harvested seaweed into a paste and treating it with acidic liquids known as lixiviants, which dissolve the targeted minerals. This mixture is then subjected to high temperatures to break chemical bonds and release the minerals. Although achieving efficient extraction—aiming for at least 50% recovery—has been challenging, researchers have optimized the process by experimenting with different lixiviants, temperatures, and
energyrare-earth-mineralsseaweedelectric-vehiclescritical-mineralssustainable-miningPacific-Northwest-National-LaboratoryU.S. Energy Department Supports Critical Minerals & Materials Supply Chain - CleanTechnica
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has made significant strides in bolstering the critical minerals and materials supply chains, a priority advanced under President Biden and supported by Democrats in Congress. Despite initial delays and uncertainties, the Trump administration has continued backing this sector, recognizing its importance for future technology and economic growth. Recently, the DOE issued nearly $1 billion in notices of funding opportunities (NOFOs) aimed at advancing mining, processing, and manufacturing technologies across key stages of these supply chains. Key initiatives include the Critical Minerals and Materials (CMM) Accelerator program, which focuses on maturing technologies to enable domestic commercialization in areas such as rare-earth magnet supply chains, semiconductor materials, and lithium extraction. The Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management plans to allocate about $250 million to pilot recovery of valuable mineral byproducts at American industrial facilities. Additionally, the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) aims to enhance domestic rare earth element (REE) supply chains by supporting
energycritical-mineralsmaterials-supply-chainrare-earth-elementsmining-technologymanufacturing-technologieslithium-extractionUS, India, Japan, Australia unite to cut China’s mineral dominance
The United States, India, Japan, and Australia, collectively known as the Quad, have launched the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative aimed at reducing global dependence on China for critical minerals essential to modern technologies like electric vehicles, batteries, and semiconductors. The initiative seeks to secure and diversify supply chains amid concerns over China’s dominant position in key minerals, particularly graphite, which is vital for electric vehicle batteries. The announcement coincides with a Quad foreign ministers’ meeting in Washington hosted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, signaling a strategic pivot toward Asia by the U.S. administration and emphasizing the need for supply chain diversification to counter economic coercion and supply disruptions. While the Quad’s joint statement did not explicitly name China, it expressed serious concerns about provocative actions in the South and East China Seas that threaten regional peace and stability, underscoring the group’s commitment to a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar stressed the importance of regional autonomy and freedom
critical-mineralssupply-chain-diversificationelectric-vehicle-batteriesQuad-alliancematerials-securityenergy-materialssemiconductor-materialsRussia captures Europe’s richest lithium site spanning 100 acres
Russian forces have seized control of a significant lithium-rich site near the village of Shevchenko in Ukraine’s Donetsk region. Spanning about 100 acres, this site is among Europe’s largest lithium reserves, a mineral critical for electric vehicle batteries, aerospace alloys, energy storage, and electronics. Despite the village’s limited tactical value, the subsurface lithium resources hold growing strategic importance amid rising global demand driven by decarbonization and military modernization. The capture strengthens Russia’s hold over Ukraine’s natural resources and fits a broader pattern of targeting key industrial assets to undermine Ukraine’s economic recovery and future investment prospects. The seizure directly challenges a recent US-Ukraine bilateral agreement aimed at fostering investment in Ukraine’s critical mineral sector, including the Shevchenko deposit. This move complicates Western efforts to develop resilient, non-Chinese supply chains for battery-grade lithium and other essential minerals, which are vital for energy transition, defense manufacturing, and economic stability. By controlling this resource corridor, Russia enhances its
lithiumenergy-storageelectric-vehicle-batteriescritical-mineralsresource-controlindustrial-supply-chainsenergy-materialsClean recycling breakthrough turns dead batteries into power for US
The article highlights a significant breakthrough by the US startup Nth Cycle, which has developed an innovative, environmentally friendly method to refine critical industrial metals from battery scrap and electronic waste. Currently, about 85% of global refining of essential minerals like cobalt, nickel, lithium, and rare Earth elements occurs in China, creating a strategic vulnerability for the US in producing electric vehicle batteries, defense equipment, and other advanced technologies. Nth Cycle’s modular, electrically powered refining platform called “The Oyster” uses electro-extraction—a process that replaces traditional high-heat, chemical-intensive refining with electricity and filtration—enabling smaller-scale, localized, and low-emission metal recovery operations across the US and Europe. Nth Cycle’s first commercial unit in Fairfield, Ohio, processes over 3,000 metric tons of scrap annually, producing cobalt and nickel while reducing reliance on foreign refining. The company’s approach, described as “refining as a service,” allows customers to maintain ownership of recovered metals while Nth Cycle operates
energybattery-recyclingcritical-mineralselectro-extractionsustainable-refiningcobalt-recoverynickel-recoveryUS: World-first lithium plant uses oilfield water with 97% recovery
A US company, Gradiant, through its lithium-focused subsidiary alkaLi, has launched the world’s first fully integrated lithium production facility that extracts lithium from oilfield produced water in Pennsylvania’s Marcellus Shale Formation. Expected to begin commercial operations by early 2026, this facility uses an innovative extract, concentrate, and convert (EC²) process that achieves up to 97% lithium recovery and 99.5% purity, surpassing industry standards. The plant is designed to supply up to 50% of the US lithium demand, addressing the growing need for domestic lithium amid rising electric vehicle and energy storage markets. AlkaLi’s vertically integrated model bypasses lengthy permitting processes, enabling faster deployment of battery-grade lithium production with lower capital and operating costs. The EC² platform combines Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) with concentration and conversion in a streamlined system that uses less water, energy, and produces less waste, enhancing both economic and environmental sustainability. The company has secured a
lithium-productionenergy-storagebattery-grade-lithiumsustainable-miningcritical-mineralselectric-vehiclesresource-recoveryIn a 1st, China pulls 99.9% ultra-pure rubidium from salt lake brine
Chinese scientists at the Qinghai Institute of Salt Lakes (ISL), part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel method to extract ultra-pure rubidium chloride (99.9% purity) from brine containing extremely low rubidium concentrations (0.001%). This breakthrough enables China to tap into its abundant but previously commercially unviable rubidium resources found primarily in salt lake brines of Qinghai province and Tibet. The new process involves a comprehensive approach including ore washing, leaching, enrichment, solvent extraction, and purification, and was successfully tested on potassium chloride from the Qarhan Salt Lake. This advancement significantly reduces China’s reliance on foreign rubidium imports, which currently stand at over 66%, mainly from Canada and Zimbabwe. Rubidium is a strategically important alkali metal used in atomic clocks, aerospace systems, perovskite solar cells, specialized glass, and medical imaging. China’s previous challenge was that over 97% of its rubidium reserves are locked in
materialsrubidium-extractioncritical-mineralsultra-pure-metalsChina-technologystrategic-metalsresource-securityOntario budget sees some wins for the clean economy but misses opportunities for long-term affordability and economic security - Clean Energy Canada
The Ontario 2025 budget includes strategic investments aimed at preparing the province’s economy for the future, with some notable wins for the clean economy. Clean Energy Canada welcomed the $92 million boost to the ChargeON program, which supports the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, having already facilitated over 1,300 charge points. This investment is seen as crucial for promoting EV adoption, reducing reliance on imported gasoline, and enhancing energy security by using locally generated electricity. However, the organization urged the government to extend support for EV chargers in multi-unit residential buildings to ensure equitable access to convenient home charging for all Ontarians. Additionally, the budget allocates $500 million to a critical minerals processing fund, aiming to refine minerals mined in Ontario locally. This move leverages Canada’s rich mineral resources to strengthen the EV battery supply chain, attract investment, and increase competitiveness on the global stage, particularly against countries like China. The budget also includes $50 million for the Ontario Together Trade Fund to boost interprovincial trade infrastructure, supporting the vision of a unified Canadian economy. Despite these positive steps, Clean Energy Canada expressed concern over proposed changes in Bill 17 that could undermine municipal authority on Green Development Standards, potentially compromising energy efficiency and long-term affordability in housing development. Overall, while the budget takes important steps toward economic growth, supply chain resilience, and clean energy leadership, Clean Energy Canada emphasizes the need for more comprehensive support for clean growth sectors and stronger provincial standards to ensure sustainable, affordable development. Thoughtful implementation of these initiatives is deemed essential to protect households, support workers, and secure Ontario’s economic future.
energyclean-energyelectric-vehiclesEV-charging-infrastructurecritical-mineralsbattery-supply-chainenergy-efficiencyTrump administration to claw back $3.7B in clean energy and manufacturing awards
energyclean-energymanufacturinglow-carbon-materialscritical-mineralscement-productionnatural-gasTrump administration may sell deep-sea mining leases at startup’s urging
robotdeep-sea-miningautonomous-vehiclescritical-mineralsenvironmental-impactunderwater-technologyresource-extractionCritical Minerals Bottleneck Unblocked By Weed (Seaweed, That Is)
critical-mineralsseaweedphytominingrare-earth-elementssustainable-energymarine-resourcesindustrial-farmingThe Geopolitics Of Critical Minerals: China’s Grip & The West’s Response
energycritical-mineralsdecarbonizationrenewable-energyindustrial-policiesgreen-hydrogenbattery-technologies