A fundamental choice for Critical Minerals development: "Fascism or radical democracy?"

The global demand for critical minerals like lithium and copper is surging, but how we attempt to quickly extract them, argues Katherine Teh , Executive Chairman of Spektrum Development , presents a fundamental choice: embrace authoritarian tactics that disregard communities or pursue transparent, consent-based development. In this pivotal moment, the stakes are high-ranging, from environmental destruction to lost economic potential. Which path should be chosen? Katherine Teh of Spektrum Development addressing the 2024 ACFID Conference WE ARE AT a crossroads in the energy transition. The gap between what the mining industry promises and what it delivers has been widening, creating not only delays but the potential for significant socio-economic and environmental risks. As the demand for critical minerals like copper, graphite, and lithium increases, we’re facing mounting challenges in securing these resources quickly enough to support the transition to renewable energy. The Problem...

China restricts mining of refractory clay, fluorite

The Peoples Republic of China has begun to restrict the mining and production of refractory clay and fluorite over concerns about decreasing reserves and environmental pollution, according to a notice posted on the central government's website reported by Xinhua.  The government intends to implement comprehensive restrictions, involving taxation, production planning management, industry entry standards and export policies.

Land and resources authorities are to enhance efforts to address problems in refractory clay and fluorite mining, and will not accept applications for new prospecting and mining projects starting from 2 January. Industry entry standards for refractory clay and fluorite enterprises will be published on 1 March.

The notice also calls for intensified customs efforts to crack down on smuggling and supervision on refuse ore treatment.