Equitable Access to the Natural Resources Needed to Achieve Net Zero

Oct 17, 2026

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This document provides an in-depth analysis of the critical natural resources required for the global transition to a net-zero energy future. It highlights the unprecedented demand for materials such as copper and rare earth elements (REEs), which are essential for technologies including wind turbines, electric vehicles, and medical devices. The report examines the global economic landscape for these resources, noting current mining and refining dependencies, and outlines significant challenges regarding supply security, geopolitical stability, and the environmental impact of extraction. By addressing the needs of a growing population alongside sustainability and equity, the document frames the essential requirements for balancing industrial progress with responsible resource management and diversified supply chains to support worldwide green technology adoption.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages44

Reading Time1 h 51 min

AccessFree to download

Motivation for Net Zero Transition

Essential Natural Resources and Applications

Global Economic Landscape of Rare Earth Elements

Supply Chain Concentration

Demand Projections

Challenges in the Energy Transition

Security of Supply

Sustainability and Equity

Geopolitical Landscape

FAQs

What are the primary natural resources mentioned as essential for the net-zero transition?

The document highlights copper and rare earth elements (REEs) as critical resources required for the transition to low-carbon or post-carbon energy systems.

What are the main challenges identified in supplying resources for the energy transition?

Key challenges include managing the security of supply, ensuring the diversity of sources, achieving sustainable resource recovery, and navigating a complex, changing geopolitical landscape while meeting the needs of an energy-hungry population.

How has the global Rare Earth Element (REE) landscape changed in terms of production?

The document indicates a significant concentration in the REE industry, with China holding a dominant share—approximately 89% to 90%—in various stages of mining, separation, and refining.

Oct 17, 2026

Uploaded by 404brain