Critical Minerals Network Roundtable: Geopolitics Webinar

The Critical Minerals Network, established by the Sydney Environment Institute (SEI), Net Zero Institute (NZI), and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, hosted researchers and scholars from across the University of Sydney for the Critical Minerals Network Roundtable: Geopolitics Webinar Event.

Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements are essential for the energy transition, powering technologies ranging from electric vehicles and renewable energy systems to advanced electronics and high-tech manufacturing. As demand for these minerals rises sharply, so too does the strategic importance of their production, supply chains, and governance. The geopolitics of critical minerals has become increasingly significant, as countries and companies compete to secure reliable access to these resources while balancing environmental, social, and ethical considerations.

This final event in the network's four-part series featured an online roundtable discussion with Professor Susan Park, Hayley Channer Director of the Economic Security Program, USSC USSC, Dr Vlado Vivoda from the Sustainable Minerals Institute, and Professor Justin Hastings, focused on current issues and developments in the critical minerals sector. Participants had the opportunity to hear from experts, exchange perspectives, and engage in discussions about the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of this rapidly evolving field.

Speakers 

Dr. Vlado Vivoda

Dr. Vlado Vivoda is a leading scholar and advisor on the geopolitics of critical minerals, energy security, and resource governance. He is affiliated with the University of Queensland and Deakin University. Ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists, he has published over 70 peer-reviewed outputs, including the forthcoming book The Geopolitics of Critical Minerals (Edward Elgar). Dr. Vivoda has advised governments, international organisations, and industry on critical minerals strategy and has appeared frequently in global media, including Bloomberg and CNBC.

Hayley Channer

Hayley Channer is Director of the Economic Security Program with the United States Studies Centre. Hayley has a diverse background having worked as an Australian Government official, Ministerial adviser, think tank analyst, and represented global non-profit organisations.

Professor Justin Hastings

Justin Hastings is Professor of International Relations and Comparative Politics at the University of Sydney, as well as Program Leader (Regional Security) at the Centre for International Security Studies.

Professor Susan Park 

Susan Park is Professor of Global Governance and leads the Critical Minerals Network at the University of Sydney. She focuses on how international organisations and global governance can become greener and more accountable, particularly in the transition to renewable energy. Her most recent book is The Good Hegemon (2022, OUP). She edits Global Environmental Politics.