EarthNote: Critical Minerals

Alexandria, VA — What would you do without your cell phone and computer? How about your car? Could you function in modern society without these contemporary devices? All of these technological marvels require no fewer than 60 different elements to function, and these elements come from a finite supply of mineral commodities. These critical minerals are defined by their dollar value, the availability of substitutes, and their ever increasing demand. In a new EarthNote, the American Geosciences Institute (AGI) outlines what makes a mineral “critical” and how the sudden loss of these resources could impact both the U.S. and global economy.

With increasing globalization, countries are relying on technology for economic, social, and military purposes more than ever before. Green technologies such as wind turbines and electric cars, communications technologies such as computers and cell phones, and cutting-edge military systems all depend on critical minerals to function efficiently and effectively. How would you be affected by a shortage of these commodities? Learn more in the Critical Minerals EarthNote, available online now at http://www.agiweb.org/environment/earthnotes/note.html?PublicID=8.

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What are EarthNotes?

Learn how the latest Earth science issues will influence your life with EarthNotes. EarthNotes are summaries of timely information about geoscience issues that inform the public about how geoscience affects society. The reports are contributed by knowledgeable geoscientists on a wide range of topics. For more information, visit http://www.agiweb.org/environment/earthnotes/.