The World Unspun Dig, Baby, Dig! Part 1: Peru, with Vanessa Baird
Apr 29, 2025
In this discussion, guest Vanessa Baird, a contributing editor at New Internationalist, uncovers the rising importance of critical minerals, especially in the context of Peru's controversial copper mining. She shares insights from local activists fighting against the Tia Maria project, highlighting the environmental and human rights challenges posed by such mining operations. Baird emphasizes the violent clashes between protesters and police, as well as the broader struggles for community rights and sustainable practices amid government-backed mining initiatives.
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Critical Minerals' Growing Importance
- Critical minerals have exotic names and are vital to many industries such as EVs and renewable energy.
- Their demand is accelerating, but the definition and strategic importance vary by perspective.
Minerals Powering Energy Transition
- The energy transition depends on critical minerals for power generation, transmission, and storage.
- Electric vehicle battery production could require massive increases in lithium mining by 2050.
Rethink Transport to Ease Mining Demand
- Reducing private car ownership and investing in quality public transport can lower demand for critical minerals.
- This shift could mitigate problems from excessive mining and human rights issues.