Tech Life
The minerals tech can't do without
Oct 15, 2024
Join journalist Vince Beiser, author of "The World in a Grain," as he discusses the critical role of sand and quartz in tech production, highlighting supply chain vulnerabilities. Kirsty Burrows from the IOC reveals an AI tool's performance against online abuse targeting athletes during the Olympics. Adventurer Ash Dykes shares thrilling tales from his record-setting 37-day jungle trek in Suriname, highlighting the tech he used for navigation and safety. Together, they explore the intricate dance of technology, natural resources, and human resilience.
26:29
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Quick takeaways
- The vulnerability of the tech supply chain is highlighted by its dependency on rare minerals, especially quartz from Spruce Pine.
- An innovative AI tool effectively identified online abuse during the Olympics, showcasing technology's role in addressing significant social issues.
Deep dives
Vulnerability of the Tech Supply Chain
The podcast highlights the vulnerability of the global tech supply chain due to its reliance on a small number of rare materials located in limited regions. A key example is the quartz from Spruce Pine, which is essential for producing ultra-pure silicon chips used in most technology today. Disruptions, such as those caused by natural disasters or geopolitical events, can significantly affect the availability of these materials. The discussion also points out that critical components like cobalt for batteries primarily come from politically unstable regions, increasing the risk for the tech industry.
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