Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and rare earth elements are essential for technologies driving the energy transition, from electric vehicles and renewable energy systems to advanced electronics. As demand surges, so does the strategic importance of their production, supply chains and governance.

These issues were the focus of the Critical Minerals Network Roundtable: Geopolitics Webinar, the final session in a four-part series hosted by the Critical Minerals Network, established by the Sydney Environment Institute, Net Zero Institute and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

The roundtable featured leading experts including Professor Susan Park, Professor Justin Hastings, Ms Hayley Channer (United States Studie Centre) and Dr Vlado Vivoda (Sustainable Minerals Institute). Speakers examined how the global race to secure mineral supplies is reshaping markets, influencing national security strategies and driving sustainability commitments.

A key challenge highlighted was the concentration of production and processing in a few regions, leaving supply chains vulnerable to geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions and sudden disruptions. As nations and companies compete for reliable access, regulatory and investment landscapes are evolving rapidly.

Beyond geopolitics, the discussion stressed the need to balance mineral extraction with environmental and social responsibilities. Building a sustainable future cannot come at the expense of ecosystems, Indigenous rights or community wellbeing. Opportunities include diversifying suppliers, advancing recycling technologies and enforcing stronger environmental standards.

Want to listen to the discussion? Hear the full conversation via our youtube channel, where experts share deeper insights into the geopolitics of critical minerals and Australia’s role in this evolving global industry.