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...

Mongolia prefers to own Tavan Tolgoi coal project

Mongolia's prime minister, Sukhbaatar Batbold, doesn't rule out foreign ownership of the $2 billion Tavan Tolgoi coal deposit but prefers state ownership. His government is looking for a contractor to help develop the project rather than selling a stake in the project to foreign companies. "We have not ruled out foreign mining companies having a stake but our preferred option is complete state control. Ownership and investment of all the big projects will be decided on a case by case basis," he said, as quoted by China Daily.

Mongolia has fifteen large strategic deposits of metals and coal reserves and is seeking $25 billion in overseas investment over five years to develop some of them.

Canada-based Ivanhoe Mines Limited and Rio Tinto have already signed an agreement for the $4 billion Oyu Tolgoi copper gold project starting in 2013.