Critical Minerals, the Climate Crisis and the Tech Imperium

This book examines the latest manifestations of resource competition, particularly in the context of the energy transition and digitalization of the global economy. It brings together an interdisciplinary group of scholars, policy makers, and industry experts to analyze the challenges and implications of the need for uninterrupted access to raw materials. The book asks hard questions about the choices needed to reach net zero by mid-century and sheds light on the growing risks to global interdependent supply chains. It is the outcome of a Summer Institute at Caltech and the Huntington that took place in July 2021.

Format: Hardback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the latest manifestations of resource competition, particularly in the context of the energy transition and the digitalization of the global economy. While geopolitics driven by Sino-American hyper-competition continue to be contentious, these developments are accelerating. The volume brings together an interdisciplinary group of scholars, policy makers, institutional stakeholders, and industry experts to examine not only the transition itself but also the implications of the unprecedented demand for raw materials. By framing the challenges ahead for global society, governance, industry, international power politics, and the environment, the book raises critical questions about the choices that must be made to achieve net zero emissions by mid-century. Moreover, it offers a nuanced, balanced, and practical exploration of the growing risks to global interdependent supply chains, challenging sensational headlines that may lead policymakers to make narrow and less effective decisions.

The volume emerged as a result of the "Rich Rocks, the Climate Crisis, and the Tech-imperium" Summer Institute, which took place in July 2021 at Caltech and the Huntington. This collaborative initiative brought together experts from various fields to explore the intersection of resource competition, climate change, and technological advancements.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031255762
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023