Topics

About this talk

This event will explore the growing global demand for the metals and minerals needed to power modern technologies and the transition to lower-carbon energy. From batteries and electric vehicles to renewable energy infrastructure, many of the technologies intended to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels depend on extracting significantly greater quantities of materials from the Earth. Bringing together perspectives from geophysics, geology and mineral sciences, the discussion will examine where these resources come from, how we find and extract them, and the environmental and societal consequences of doing so. It will ask whether new technologies, different approaches to extraction, recycling and more responsible use of resources can reduce those impacts – and whether there is a better way to meet our growing demand for the materials beneath our feet. This event will be led by St Cross Fellows Professor Mike Kendall and Dr Richard Palin, as part of the college's themed programme this autumn. Designed for a curious, non-specialist audience, the events will provide plenty of opportunity to put your own questions to our speakers. Other events in the programme: Tuesday 3 November: What causes climate change? Tuesday 1 December: Should humans move to the Moon?

→ More information & booking (opens in new tab)