An analysis of critical mineral lists and insights into their policy impacts

CMI researchers from Colorado School of Mines and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory conducted the activity for this highlight

Achievement 
Article submitted to Energy Research & Social Science reviewing the structures, objectives, and limitations of critical materials lists for energy transitions.


Significance and Impact 
Many nations publish critical minerals lists that identify minerals essential to economic growth and technological innovation. This paper examines the minerals listed, the reasoning behind them, their evolution over time, and limitations of these lists, which can offer insights into national policies and priorities.

Details and Next Steps

  • Understanding effectiveness of critical materials lists in addressing supply constraints and how they support long term energy transitions.
  • Deeper analysis of the role and features of these lists can provide insight into the dynamics related to production, processing, and trade of critical materials.

Hub Target Addressed

  • Developing criticality assessments and supply chain analysis tools

  • Assessing economic, environmental, and social acceptance impacts

    bar chart shows Rationales driving establishment of critical minerals/materials lists among 15 countries, the EU, and 2 Canadian provinces. The inset shows that economic performance, technological development, and supply risks are common concerns.
    Rationales driving establishment of critical minerals/materials lists among 15 countries, the EU, and 2 Canadian provinces. The inset shows that economic performance, technological development, and supply risks are common concerns.